WHO reveals new details about the “Hantavirus” after deaths and infections were recorded aboard a cruise ship

The World Health Organization has announced new details related to the “Hantavirus” after cases were recorded that sparked concern following a limited spread of the virus aboard a cruise ship.

The organization revealed that 8 suspected cases had been detected, 6 of which were laboratory-confirmed, while 3 deaths were recorded among those infected, bringing the fatality rate to 38%.

In a statement, the UN agency said: “As of May 8, a total of 8 cases, including 3 deaths (fatality rate 38%), have been reported.”

The statement added: “Six cases have been laboratory-confirmed as Hantavirus infections, all identified as the Andes virus strain (ANDV),” in addition to two cases that remain under suspicion.

The organization stressed that “WHO assesses the risk posed by this event to the global population as low,” noting that it will continue monitoring the epidemiological situation and update its risk assessment accordingly.

It also clarified that “the level of risk to passengers and crew members aboard the ship is considered moderate.”