A suspected outbreak of Hantavirus has been reported aboard the cruise ship MV Hondius, currently off the coast of Cape Verde. The situation has led to passengers being effectively confined onboard, highlighting concerns over infectious disease transmission in closed environments.
About Hantavirus
Hantavirus is a family of zoonotic viruses that can cause severe and sometimes fatal diseases in humans.
- Identified in Hantan River region of South Korea in the 1970s
- Recognised globally as a rodent-borne viral disease
- Rare cases of human-to-human transmission have been reported
Transmission & Vector
- Primary carriers: Deer mice, Cotton rats, White-footed mice
- Mode of infection:
- Aerosolisation of virus particles from: Droppings, Rodent urine, Saliva
- Activities like sweeping or cleaning contaminated areas increase risk
- Diagnostic method:
- PCR testing, similar to tests used for viral infections like COVID-19
Types of Diseases Caused
Hantavirus infections mainly manifest in two severe forms:
- Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome (HPS)
- Affects lungs
- Causes acute respiratory distress
- Common in North and South America
- Fatality rate ~40%
- Hemorrhagic Fever with Renal Syndrome (HFRS)
- Affects kidneys
- Causes internal bleeding and renal failure
Symptoms
Symptoms typically appear 1–8 weeks after exposure:
- Early Stage:
- Fever
- Fatigue
- Later Stage (4–10 days after onset):
- Coughing
- Shortness of breath
- Fluid accumulation in lungs
- Early diagnosis is difficult (especially within first 72 hours) as symptoms resemble common flu
Treatment
- No specific antiviral cure available
- Management is supportive, including: Rest and fluid therapy and Oxygen support or ventilator in severe cases
Prevention
- Avoid exposure to rodents and contaminated environments
- Do not sweep or vacuum dry rodent droppings (prevents aerosolisation)
- Maintain hygiene and rodent control in living spaces
Significance
- Highlights risks of zoonotic spillover infections
- Demonstrates vulnerability of closed settings like ships to outbreaks
- Emphasises importance of early detection, sanitation, and vector control