Argentina: A deadly hantavirus outbreak aboard a luxury cruise ship has triggered global concern after three passengers lost their lives and several others tested positive, including two Indian nationals working as crew members. However, the World Health Organization (WHO) clarified that the virus currently does not pose a pandemic-level threat similar to COVID-19.

According to international media reports, the Dutch cruise vessel MV Hondius, which began its journey from Ushuaia, Argentina, has reported multiple hantavirus infections during its voyage. So far, three individuals have died due to the virus, while at least five more infections have been confirmed.

The ship departed from Argentina on April 1 and was scheduled to reach the Canary Islands in Spain on May 10. Around 150 passengers and crew members from 28 different countries were onboard the vessel. The highest number of travelers reportedly came from the Philippines, the United Kingdom, and the United States.

Health authorities have confirmed that two Indian crew members were among those infected. However, detailed information regarding their current medical condition has not yet been released.

Among the deceased are a Dutch couple and a German traveler. Reports also indicate that a 69-year-old Dutch woman tested positive for the virus. Authorities have intensified contact-tracing efforts to prevent further spread of the infection. Earlier, around 29 passengers were allowed to disembark at St Helena Island on April 24.

Medical experts stated that hantavirus is generally transmitted through rodents. However, the “Andes strain” identified in this outbreak is considered unusual because it has limited human-to-human transmission capability. This has prompted close monitoring by global health agencies.

Responding to growing concerns, WHO epidemiologist Maria Van Kerkhove urged the public not to panic. She explained that hantavirus spreads differently from COVID-19 and influenza and currently shows no signs of turning into a global pandemic. As a precautionary measure, passengers onboard have been advised to wear masks, while medical staff caring for infected individuals have been instructed to use PPE kits.