Should we be worried about hantavirus?

Anyone watching the news recently – seeing reports of the hantavirus outbreak, hearing of the deaths and calls for passengers to self-isolate – will no doubt have been reminded of the lockdown days. It’s a time no one wishes to return to, and understandably many people have been worried about what this new hantavirus outbreak means. To put your minds at ease, the health experts at YourGP answer all your questions below.

What is hantavirus?

Hantavirus is primarily carried by rats and mice. Infection typically occurs when a person breathes air that is contaminated with virus particles from the rodent’s urine, droppings or saliva.

Where was the recent outbreak?

On 2nd May 2026, several cases of hantavirus were reported to the World Health Organisation (WHO). All cases were linked to the cruise ship, MV Hondius. The ship departed from Ushuaia, Argentina, on 1st April 2026 with 114 passengers and 61 crew onboard.

How serious was the recent outbreak?

As of 13th May 2026, a total of 11 cases, including three deaths, had been reported.

What are the symptoms of hantavirus?

Hantavirus symptoms typically appear 1-8 weeks after exposure and often start with fever and chills, fatigue, muscle aches, headache, dizziness, and gastrointestinal issues such as abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting and diarrhoea. This can progress into coughing, shortness of breath and fluid buildup in the lungs.

How is it treated?

There is currently no vaccine or licensed treatments for hantavirus, so treatment usually focuses on managing the symptoms of the disease. If left untreated, hantavirus has the potential to cause low blood pressure, haemorrhage, kidney failure, and death.

Could this be the start of another pandemic?

Passengers and crew onboard the ship were advised to remain in their cabins as much as possible, maintain maximum physical distancing and wear masks. After disembarking the ship, they have been required to isolate for up to 45 days and monitor any symptoms closely.

Thankfully, evidence shows us that this virus does not spread easily in humans, or before those infected start showing symptoms, unlike the virus that causes COVID-19. Even on the cruise ship where people were in close proximity to each other for an extended period of time, the transmission was limited to just a few people with the closest contact.

Bearing all of the above in mind, UK Health Security Agency has insisted the risk to the public from hantavirus is “very low.”

And this is supported by a statement from WHO; “WHO has assessed the risk posed by this event to the global population as low and will continue to monitor the epidemiological situation and update the risk assessment as needed.”

Could hantavirus impact summer holiday plans?

With summer holidays just around the corner and the hantavirus originating on a cruise ship, many people may naturally wonder if holiday plans could be impacted. However, the following statement from WHO should help to put people’s minds at rest; “Public health awareness efforts should focus on improving early detection, ensuring timely treatment, and reducing exposure risks. Most routine tourism activities carry little or no risk of exposure to rodents or their excreta.”

Speak to the health experts

If you or a loved one is unwell, or you’re worried about any unusual symptoms you can book an appointment with one of our medical professionals. You can do so via our simple online booking system, by emailing reception@your.gp, or by calling us on 0131 556 2525 and we’ll be happy to arrange an appointment at a time that suits you.