Health authorities are monitoring a hantavirus outbreak that reportedly started on the MV Hondius cruise ship. This situation has brought the Andes virus into the spotlight, a relatively rare variant originating from South America that’s raising alarms.
So far, about eight individuals have been infected, and tragically, three have died as of May 11. The World Health Organization has confirmed this strain as the Andean variant.
What’s particularly concerning is that, unlike other hantaviruses generally spread from rodents to humans, the Andes virus can be passed from person to person. This raises questions about the potential for further transmission under certain circumstances.
According to Dr. Mark Siegel, a Senior Medical Analyst, there’s been a noticeable increase in Andean strains lately, as changes in weather patterns are pushing rodent populations northward toward Buenos Aires. He noted that this virus is fundamentally rodent-based and, importantly, current genetic testing hasn’t indicated any mutations at this time.
The Andes virus primarily exists in countries like Argentina and Chile, as stated by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). It’s predominantly transmitted by a rodent called the long-tailed pygmy rice rat.
Dr. Siegel emphasized that this strain often results in more severe complications, such as hantavirus pulmonary syndrome (HPS), which is a serious respiratory illness affecting the lungs and leading to fluid accumulation and breathing difficulties.
The CDC warns that HPS can be quite serious, with about 38% of those who develop respiratory symptoms succumbing to the illness. Early signs include fatigue, fever, and muscle aches, and other symptoms might also involve headaches, dizziness, and gastrointestinal issues like nausea and vomiting. Symptoms generally manifest anywhere from 4 to 42 days post-exposure, and usually, only symptomatic individuals can spread the virus to others.
Despite the Andes virus’s ability to transmit between people, Dr. Siegel reassured that occurrences remain infrequent. He also pointed out that there are no current treatments or vaccines available. However, the U.S. Army Medical Research Institute is actively working on monoclonal antibodies and mRNA vaccines.
Patients generally receive supportive care focused on rest and hydration, alongside medications to alleviate symptoms. Health experts are noting that the Andes virus does not spread as effectively as other, more contagious illnesses like measles or influenza.
The risk to the general American population and travelers is considered “very low,” according to the CDC. They advise that testing for the Andes virus should only be done if relevant symptoms exist or if there’s a history of exposure. Anyone who believes they may have come into contact with an infected individual and experiences symptoms is urged to reach out to their healthcare provider or local health department promptly.
