Cruise Ship Faces Deadly Andes Virus Outbreak

South African health officials have detected the Andes strain of hantavirus on a cruise ship involved in a rare infection outbreak. The virus is primarily spread by rodents and close human contact, posing risks to travelers who shared spaces. Several infections and fatalities have been confirmed.

South African health authorities have reported an outbreak of the Andes strain of hantavirus on a cruise ship, affecting passengers with a rare viral infection.

The virus, typically spread by rodents and less commonly through close human contact, requires isolation to prevent transmission, experts caution. The cruise ship, currently off Cape Verde, has seen three fatalities, including a British national in intensive care.

The World Health Organization notes that the virus is typically found in South America. The infected ship had set sail from Argentina, highlighting the need for vigilance in tracking and containing this infectious disease.