Health Agency Reports 13 Hantavirus Cases Linked to Cruise Ship

As of 27 May 2026, health authorities have recorded 13 hantavirus cases connected to travel on the MV Hondius, consisting of 11 confirmed cases and two probable cases. Three deaths have been reported in total, two confirmed and one probable. All confirmed cases involve individuals who traveled on the vessel.

The virus involved is Andes virus.

Officials state that limited human-to-human transmission is known to occur, though the precise routes remain under investigation. Possible transmission modes include contact with an infected person or contaminated surfaces, direct deposition of respiratory particles on facial mucosal surfaces, and inhalation of infectious particles.

Using data from prior outbreaks in Argentina and the current cruise ship cases, officials estimate a mean incubation period of 22 days. This supports a 42-day quarantine recommendation for high-risk contacts and self-monitoring for low-risk contacts. The probability of safe release from quarantine is estimated at 96 percent after 42 days and 91 percent after 35 days.