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What Is Hantavirus? How Deadly Is It & Can It Be Transmitted From Human-To-Human?
24htopnews | May 7, 2026 1:09 AM CST

According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), recently three people have died after a suspected hantavirus outbreak on a cruise ship sailing in the Atlantic Ocean. The virus is not typically spread from person to person, but humans can become infected when they inhale airborne particles contaminated by rodents or come into direct contact with them.

Hantavirus is a group of serious viruses which is carried by wild rodents (mice, rats) and transmitted to humans. It is a rare but serious viral infection caused by exposure to infected rodents, particularly their urine, droppings, or saliva. The disease is primarily found in parts of Asia, Europe, and the Americas, and can lead to severe respiratory illness or kidney-related complications depending on the strain.

About Hantavirus

According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), recently three people have died after a suspected hantavirus outbreak on a cruise ship sailing in the Atlantic Ocean. The virus is not typically spread from person to person, but humans can become infected when they inhale airborne particles contaminated by rodents or come into direct contact with them. Early symptoms often resemble flu, including fever, fatigue, and muscle pain, but the condition can rapidly progress into severe respiratory distress, making it potentially life-threatening if not treated promptly.

Hantavirus: The virus symptoms


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