After widespread international monitoring, the World Health Organization announces the end of the Hanta virus outbreak linked to a cruise ship

The World Health Organization (WHO) announced the end of the outbreak of Hanta virus linked to the cruise ship MV Hondius, more than a month after health monitoring and international follow-up. According to the Associated Press (AP), WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus confirmed that the last person among the contacts had completed their quarantine period and tested negative, with no new cases recorded since May 25.

According to the organization, the outbreak resulted in 13 infections and three deaths, while health authorities monitored more than 650 contacts across 33 countries and territories as part of efforts to contain the spread of the virus. The WHO stated that it would continue to cooperate with governments and international partners to enhance understanding of Hanta virus and its transmission mechanisms, through a scientific study involving 21 countries, aimed at supporting the development of diagnostic tools, treatments, and vaccines in preparation for any future outbreaks.

The ship had departed from Argentina in early April before cases were detected on board, prompting a change in its course and the implementation of health measures that included evacuating passengers and imposing quarantine on some crew members. To date, the source that led to the outbreak remains unknown.