France’s Pasteur Institute Analyzes Andes Virus in Cruise Ship Passengers

The Pasteur Institute in France has completed the sequencing of the Andes virus found in a French passenger from the MV Hondius cruise ship. They reported that this virus matches those previously identified in South America, and there’s currently no indication of new, concerning characteristics that would increase its transmissibility or danger.

Health Minister Stéphanie Rist mentioned on social media that the analyzed virus aligns with existing variants tracked in South America. She further stated, “At this stage, no element suggests the emergence” of a more transmissible or dangerous strain. Notably, the Andes virus is the only hantavirus known to transmit between people.

The genomic analysis indicated a strong connection between the virus in the French passenger and those identified in other cases from the ship. Additionally, it closely resembled previously recorded Andes virus samples from South America. Rist emphasized that this sequencing helps to enhance understanding of the virus and ensures vigilant health monitoring. The findings will be shared with the global scientific community.

According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, hantaviruses are typically transmitted to humans through contact with contaminated rodent waste or saliva, leading to potential severe respiratory issues.

The Pasteur Institute reported that the viruses found in the ship’s patients were identical and approximately 97% similar to certain Andes viruses present in South American rodents. Jean-Claude Manuguerra, who leads the institute’s Environment and Infectious Risk unit, noted that the variations observed seemed to reflect natural viral differences and did not appear to change the virus’s properties among travelers.

The French passenger who tested positive is undergoing treatment in Paris and was previously reported to be in serious condition. The outbreak on the ship has led to a total of ten cases, with eight confirmed, as stated by the World Health Organization. Tragically, three individuals, including a Dutch couple believed to be the first infected during their visit to South America, have passed away.

Following the MV Hondius’s arrival in Spain’s Canary Islands, passengers were carefully evacuated and repatriated to their home countries. Among them were 17 Americans and one British dual citizen, who returned to the U.S. on May 11. They are currently under observation at the National Quarantine Unit in Nebraska.