What Is Hantavirus? Why Are Cruise Travellers More Prone To Suffering From It?

Hantavirus-linked cases connected to cruise ship travel have raised fresh concerns among health experts, putting the spotlight back on a rare but deadly virus spread through rodents. But what exactly is it, and how dangerous is it? Read on to know.

What Is Hantavirus & Why It Is Linked To Cruise Ships?

As per a report by News18, Hantavirus is a group of viruses primarily spread through rodents, especially rats and mice. Humans can become infected with this virus after coming into contact with rodent urine, saliva or droppings. People can also get infected by inhaling tiny airborne particles contaminated by rodent waste, especially in enclosed or poorly ventilated areas. Unlike Covid-19 or influenza, hantavirus does not generally spread easily from person to person.

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As per the reports, officials are investigating recent cases reportedly related to cruise ship travel. The experts who are investigating believe that infected rodents may have accessed cargo storage zones, waste disposal sections, food supplies or maintenance areas onboard ships. Cruise ships can also create unique challenges because thousands of passengers and crew share enclosed environments, making it difficult to identify where exposure may have happened. So far, there is no indication of widespread human-to-human transmission on ships.

What Are Its Symptoms?

Early symptoms of hantavirus are similar to the flu, making diagnosis difficult in the early stages. Other symptoms include fever, muscle aches, headaches, fatigue, nausea and vomiting. In serious cases, the illness can rapidly lead to severe breathing problems and lung failure, a condition also known as Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome.

Hantavirus infections are rare but are said to be deadly. Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome has a high fatality rate if not treated properly and quickly. However, there is currently no specific cure for the Hantavirus treatment, and it mainly focuses on supportive hospital care, like intensive monitoring and oxygen support.

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Hantavirus cases have previously been reported in the United States and parts of South America and Asia. Infection is usually linked to exposure in cabins, farms, warehouses, campsites or abandoned buildings where rodents are present.

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