WHO experts remain steadfast in their assessment of the global public health threat of hantavirus as low, reporting that the current situation is not comparable to the early stages of the COVID-19 pandemic.
The risk assessment follows an outbreak of the disease, identified as the Andes strain of hantavirus, on a cruise ship crossing the Atlantic Ocean in which three people have died, with another five infected.
None of the remaining passengers or crew onboard the MV Hondius are symptomatic, but investigations continue, WHO told reporters.
Differences in Transmission
Dr Maria Van Kerkhove, Director, Department of Epidemic and Pandemic Preparedness and Prevention, WHO, Geneva, Switzerland, said: “I want to be unequivocal here: this is not SARS-CoV-2.
“This is not the same situation we were in six years ago.”
Dr Van Kerkhove highlighted the difference in the human-to-human transmission of hantavirus, which requires very close contact, and SARS-CoV-2, which does not.
In fact, in previous hantavirus outbreaks, the Andes strain is the only one known to have been transmitted between humans.
Passengers aboard the cruise ship have been reportedly instructed to wear medical masks if leaving their room.
Van Kerkhove added: “The actions that are being taken onboard are precautionary to prevent any onward spread.”
Anaïs Legand, Technical Lead, Viral Haemorrhagic Fevers, WHO, added to expert sentiment, stating that the only particularly unusual aspect of the outbreak is the fact it happened on a cruise ship.
The Canary Islands and Global Solidarity
The MV Hondius is currently headed towards Tenerife, Canary Islands, where it has been diverted for medical assistance.
Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, Director-General, WHO, said: “Of course, we understand their concerns but the risk to the people on the Canary Islands is low.”
He applauded global solidarity in mitigating hantavirus risk and protecting passengers and crew, adding: “Solidarity is the most important here, and that’s what the [Spanish] Prime Minister has shown.”
WHO experts also praised global technical solidarity in the international collaboration of experts across diagnostics, investigations, and public health responses.
Featured image: Dejan on Adobe Stock
