Understanding Hantavirus: Symptoms, Transmission Routes, and Pandemic Risk

Hantavirus is a group of viruses typically transmitted to humans through the droppings, urine, or saliva of infected rodents. Transmission generally occurs when a person breathes in airborne particles in or near rodent habitats.

The Andes hantavirus—linked to the recent cruise-ship outbreak—has distinctive characteristics: it is the only hantavirus known to be transmissible between humans.

The United States’ Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) state that human-to-human transmission usually requires prolonged close contact. Nevertheless, some scientists warn there could be airborne transmission.

Despite its virulence, experts such as Dr. Josh Schiffer of the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center note several reasons hantavirus is easier to control than SARS-CoV-2: genomic sequencing has shown the virus has not acquired mutations that would make it more easily transmitted. Officials believe that with strict isolation and proper health protocols, the outbreak can be contained.

Currently, general masking is not mandated as during the COVID-19 pandemic, except for those in high-risk settings or in contact with infected patients. However, awareness of rodent hygiene and vigilance for acute respiratory symptoms remain the key preventive measures.

East Kalimantan Health Office has instructed ten districts/cities to be vigilant for hantavirus following confirmation on the Hondius cruise ship. See prevention steps and symptoms here.

IDAI emphasises that hantavirus is not a new virus and is distinct from COVID-19. See prevention methods via PHBS and maintaining hygiene around rodent habitats.

Epidemiologist Dicky Budiman warns of the dangers of hantavirus transmitted by rodents. See symptoms, a mortality risk around 40%, and prevention measures here.

Findings on the hantavirus outbreak on the MV Hondius have caused a stir. The World Health Organization (WHO) confirms the outbreak and epidemiologists explain its transmission.