William Hanage, a professor of epidemiology at Harvard, believes that the hantavirus outbreak on the Dutch cruise ship MV Hondius will eventually be contained, though it may take some time. The focus is now on preventing further transmission as 18 American passengers have returned to the U.S., while others are heading back to their home countries. As of May 8, the World Health Organization has reported eight cases and three deaths.
Hantavirus is more lethal than COVID on a case-by-case basis but is harder to transmit, according to Hanage. Among the 18 people under monitoring in the U.S., one has tested positive. The virus requires prolonged close contact with an infected person who is shedding the virus. For example, a doctor on the cruise ship contracted the virus while treating the initial patient under conditions that likely lacked proper ventilation and protective gear.
Hanage expects more cases to emerge, but he is confident the outbreak will be limited and contained. He estimates the number of people at risk worldwide is very low. The primary challenge is determining how long the containment will take. The spread of infectious diseases is influenced by global connectivity, as shown by the cruise ship outbreak leading to international travel.
Hantaviruses are typically spread among rodents, with most not transmitting between humans. However, the Andes strain, which originated in Argentina, is an exception. Human-to-human transmission is rare, but outbreaks have occurred. The virus has a long incubation period, complicating efforts to differentiate between common exposure and transmission.
A previous outbreak in Argentina in 2018 required enforced self-quarantine and restrictions on large gatherings to control transmission. Those potentially exposed must remain in quarantine for several weeks. Symptoms of hantavirus pulmonary syndrome include severe respiratory and gastrointestinal issues, with fever being an early sign. Misdiagnosis is possible since fever is a common symptom in many infections.
Efforts to contain the outbreak are ongoing, with close monitoring and quarantine measures in place to prevent further spread.
Original Source: news.harvard.edu
