The World Health Organization has insisted that the hantavirus outbreak linked to a cruise ship is not the beginning of a new Covid-style pandemic, stressing that the risk to the general public remains low. In a press conference, WHO experts highlighted key differences between hantavirus and the coronavirus, emphasizing that the current situation is largely contained to the vessel.
Key Points from WHO Briefing
WHO experts underscored that the hantavirus cluster is not the start of a pandemic, pointing to several distinctions between the two viruses. The public health risk is considered low, with eight confirmed cases and three deaths. The outbreak is believed to be confined to the cruise ship, and a comprehensive public health operation is underway to minimize further transmission.
Transmission and Incubation
The virus requires close and prolonged contact for transmission, such as among household members, intimate partners, and healthcare providers. The incubation period is expected to be up to six weeks, and more cases are possible. The first confirmed case is linked to a birdwatching trip in Argentina, Chile, and Uruguay.
WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus spoke during a virtual press conference on the hantavirus cluster. The organization does not anticipate a large epidemic, according to its senior expert.
