Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome (HPS) is a rare but serious infectious disease caused by hantaviruses, which are carried mainly by wild rodents such as deer mice. Humans typically become infected by inhaling airborne particles contaminated with rodent urine, droppings, or saliva. The virus does not usually spread from person to person, except in very rare cases involving specific strains.
Once inhaled, the virus can affect the lungs and damage blood vessels, leading to fluid leakage into the lungs. This makes breathing difficult and can rapidly become life-threatening if not treated early. There is currently no specific vaccine or antiviral cure, so early detection and intensive medical care are critical for survival.
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WHO Warns 12 Countries After South Atlantic Cruise Ship Confirmed Cases
The World Health Organisation (WHO) has reportedly alerted 12 countries after confirmed hantavirus cases were detected aboard a South Atlantic cruise ship. According to officials, two Indian nationals were among a small cluster of suspected infections identified during monitoring on the vessel.
WHO Director-General Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus stated that while the situation is being closely observed, the overall public health risk remains low. Health authorities have begun contact tracing and precautionary monitoring of passengers and crew.
Experts emphasised that hantavirus infections are generally linked to rodent exposure in enclosed or poorly ventilated environments such as ships, warehouses, or storage facilities. Human-to-human transmission remains extremely rare and is not considered a major driver of outbreaks in most regions.
Precautions for Prevention
Preventing hantavirus infection mainly involves reducing exposure to rodents and their droppings. People working or travelling in rodent-prone areas should take strict hygiene precautions.
Food should always be stored in sealed, rodent-proof containers, and waste must be disposed of in tightly covered bins. Homes, ships, and workplaces should be regularly cleaned and checked for rodent entry points, which should be sealed immediately. Using gloves and disinfectants while cleaning old storage areas or sheds is strongly recommended.
Rodent infestations should be controlled using traps or professional pest management services. Activities like camping, hiking, or cleaning unused buildings should be done cautiously, especially in areas with known rodent presence.
Early medical attention is essential if symptoms such as fever, muscle pain, breathing difficulty, or severe fatigue appear after possible exposure.
