The World Health Organization has said the hantavirus outbreak reported on board the Dutch cruise ship MV Hondius is unlikely to turn into a global pandemic like COVID-19.
Maria Van Kerkhove, infectious disease expert at the WHO, said hantavirus is among the world’s rare and highly dangerous viruses, but its rate of transmission is much lower compared to the coronavirus.
She clarified that hantavirus spreads mainly through close contact and exposure, and the infection is unlikely to spread widely unless people come into direct contact with infected individuals or contaminated environments.
The WHO has sought a detailed report on the spread of the virus aboard the MV Hondius after concerns emerged over infections among passengers.
According to reports, three people on the ship have died due to the virus, while eight others have tested positive for hantavirus infection.
