The bank vole is one of the rodents that can transmit the hantavirus. In rare cases, there is human-to-human transmission.
Patrick Pleul/picture alliance/via Getty Images
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Patrick Pleul/picture alliance/via Getty Images
Recently, concerns have arisen regarding the hantavirus, a potentially lethal disease transmitted primarily through contact with rodent excretions. An outbreak may have occurred on a cruise ship docked off the coast of Cape Verde, indicating possible human-to-human transmission.
Overview of the Situation
According to Maria Van Kerkhove, the director of epidemic and pandemic management at the World Health Organization, “We do believe that there may be some human-to-human transmission happening among close contacts, such as couples and cabin sharers.” This revelation has surprised many experts, including Kari Debbink, a virologist at the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, who describes the evidence as compelling yet believes the general public’s risk remains very low.
Among the 147 passengers and crew members aboard the ship, two confirmed and five suspected hantavirus cases have been reported. Tragically, three patients have died, and one remains in intensive care in South Africa. However, this patient is reportedly improving. Two individuals on board are being evacuated to the Netherlands for medical treatment, while another suspected case has exhibited a fever but is currently asymptomatic.
The Hantavirus Disease Process
The hantavirus infection can lead to hantavirus pulmonary syndrome, a severe condition where flu-like symptoms, such as fatigue and muscle aches, transition into severe respiratory issues as the lungs fill with fluid. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention indicates that over one-third of patients who develop respiratory symptoms may die from the illness.
Typically, individuals are infected by inhaling the virus from rodent excretions. Limited case studies have indicated that the virus might also spread between humans.
Potential Human-to-Human Transmission
Dr. Emily Abdoler, a clinical associate professor at the University of Michigan, explains that although approximately 20 to 30 different hantavirus species can cause disease, only the Andes Virus found in Argentina and Chile has been associated with human-to-human transmission. The ship’s travel history included disembarkation in Argentina, suggesting a possible link.
Timing is also crucial in understanding the spread of the virus. The first patient became ill shortly after boarding the cruise ship, while other cases arose weeks later. Van Kerkhove speculated that initial infections likely occurred before boarding.
The ship’s itinerary included stops at various islands along the African coast, where varying levels of rodent populations exist. As a result, there might be multiple sources of infection.
Impact on Public Health Response
The implication of potential human-to-human spread necessitates a revised public health strategy. Dr. Abdoler noted that isolating those who interacted with passengers extends beyond the ship due to the possible virus transmission among humans. She emphasized that public health measures must adapt to these findings to effectively manage the situation.
Debbink suggests that masks should be worn by those aboard the ship to prevent further spread, as the virus may take time to manifest symptoms.
Despite possible human-to-human transmission, Debbink remarked the virus does not seem highly transmissible, as the number of cases is relatively low given the close quarters on the ship.
Current Actions and Next Steps
Van Kerkhove indicated that all personnel interacting with patients are utilizing full personal protective equipment. The South African National Institute for Communicable Diseases is conducting viral sequencing as authorities plan an investigation upon arrival at the Canary Islands.
The cruise ship is set to continue its journey, where Spanish authorities will facilitate an epidemiological investigation, disinfection of the vessel, and assessment of all passengers.
Key Takeaways
- A hantavirus outbreak may have occurred on a cruise ship near Cape Verde.
- There are concerns regarding possible human-to-human transmission, especially among close contacts.
- Currently reported cases include two confirmed and five suspected, with multiple fatalities.
- The disease can cause severe respiratory illness, with significant mortality risk.
- Public health responses are being adjusted to account for potential human transmission.
- The ship will undergo disinfection, and passengers will be medically evaluated upon arrival.
FAQ
What is hantavirus?
Hantavirus is a serious viral infection primarily transmitted through contact with rodent droppings, urine, or saliva.
How does hantavirus affect humans?
The virus can lead to hantavirus pulmonary syndrome, causing flu-like symptoms and severe respiratory issues.
Can hantavirus spread between people?
While rare, some evidence suggests that certain strains, like the Andes Virus, can transmit between humans.
What precautions are being taken on the cruise ship?
Medical personnel are wearing full protective gear, and isolation measures are being enacted for those who interacted with sick passengers.
What will happen to the passengers onboard?
The passengers will be assessed upon reaching the Canary Islands, where a thorough epidemiological investigation will be conducted.
