Hantavirus: A Dangerous Scientific Cruise

Abstract

Thirteen cases of hantavirus infection (including three deaths) were detected on a cruise ship returning from Ushuaia. Following discussions, the ship was permitted to dock in the Canary Islands, where passengers were disembarked under safety protocols and sent back to their respective countries for medical monitoring. Hantaviruses comprise more than 53 species, each associated with a specific rodent. Humans become infected through the inhalation of excreta in areas frequented by rodents. Hantavirus infections are zoonoses that manifest as hemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome or cardiopulmonary syndrome. The Andes strain, found in South America, is capable of human-to-human transmission. Diagnosis is established via serology or PCR. There is no treatment or vaccine.