What is hantavirus and how does it spread? Key questions after outbreak
The Andes strain of the virus has been confirmed in some passengers, which can rarely be passed from person to person.
AI Summary
A cruise ship traveling from Argentina to Cape Verde has reported confirmed cases of the Andes strain of hantavirus, with three confirmed cases and five suspected cases linked to the vessel. The Andes strain is unusual among hantaviruses because it can rarely spread from person to person, unlike other strains which are typically transmitted through contact with infected rodent urine and droppings. Authorities are recommending strict social distancing measures on the ship similar to Covid protocols, given the potential for human-to-human transmission of this particular strain.