Hantavirus has not mutated to be more transmissible: WHO
The World Health Organization (WHO) confirmed on Friday that the Andes hantavirus, responsible for a deadly outbreak on a cruise ship, has not mutated to become more transmissible or severe. Genetic sequencing by experts shows no changes in the virus, though WHO and U.S. health officials are maintaining strict quarantines for exposed passengers, including a 42-day isolation period, as a precautionary measure.
The World Health Organization (WHO) stated Friday that genetic analysis of the Andes hantavirus, which caused an outbreak on a cruise ship killing three people, shows no evidence of mutation to increase transmissibility or severity. Dr. Maria Van Kerkhove, WHO’s director of epidemic and pandemic preparedness, reported that geneticists sequencing the virus found no changes suggesting altered behavior. The outbreak, linked to the cruise ship MV *Hondius*, prompted global health officials to implement strict quarantine measures for passengers who disembarked. U.S. passengers were taken to Nebraska’s National Quarantine Center, where they could choose between staying under quarantine or returning home for monitoring. WHO emphasized that quarantines and monitoring are precautionary, as human-to-human transmission of the virus is possible. The organization recommends a 42-day quarantine for exposed individuals to prevent potential spread, despite the overall public risk remaining low. The Andes hantavirus has no cure and can be fatal, heightening concerns about broader outbreaks. However, Van Kerkhove stressed that current evidence indicates no increase in severity or transmission efficiency.
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