In early May 2026, cases of Andes hantavirus (ANDV) were reported among passengers and crew aboard the cruise ship M/V Hondius. In response, precautionary measures were rapidly implemented, including isolation of contact cases and hospitalization of infected individuals to limit the likelihood of transmission.

Hantaviruses are zoonotic viruses carried by rodents, typically associated with specific host species. Most hantaviruses are not transmitted between humans. However, Andes hantavirus is an exception, as it is the only known strain capable of person-to-person transmission, which can result in severe and potentially life-threatening disease.

GESLACHT

Andes virus is an enveloped virus belonging to the Hantaviridae family (genus Orthohantavirus), with wild rodents such as mice, rats and voles serving as its natural reservoir.

TRANSMISSIE

Transmission primarily occurs through:

• Inhalation of aerosolized particles from contaminated urine, feces or saliva
• Direct contact with rodent excreta

Although human-to-human transmission remains under investigation, limited transmission has been observed in cases of close and prolonged contact.

INCUBATIE

The incubation period is typically around three weeks, ranging from 10 days to 6 weeks.

SYMPTOMEN

Clinical manifestations vary depending on the hantavirus strain. Infection may lead to:

• Hemorrhagic Fever with Renal Syndrome (HFRS)
• Hantavirus Cardiopulmonary Syndrome (HCPS)

In Andes virus infections, symptoms usually begin with:

• Fever
• Headaches
• Fatigue
• Myalgia
• Gastrointestinal symptoms

In severe cases, the disease may progress to:

• Pneumonia
• Acute respiratory distress
• Shock

INFECTION PREVENTION AND CONTROL MEASURES

Given that the transmission route of Andes hantavirus is still under investigation, strict implementation of both standard and transmission-based precautions is essential in healthcare settings.

Key measures include:

• Strict hand hygiene using alcohol-based hand rub (when hands are not visibly soiled), in accordance with the WHO 5 Moments
• Use of appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE): FFP2/FFP3 mask, eye protection, fluid-resistant long-sleeved gown, and gloves
• Proper donning and doffing procedures, with hand hygiene performed before and after PPE use
• Daily cleaning and disinfection of surfaces using products effective against enveloped viruses
• Placement of patients in isolation rooms with negative pressure (12 air changes per hour, or minimum 6)
• Use of dedicated or disposable medical equipment
• Management of clinical waste as category A infectious waste
• Handling of linen in impermeable and labelled bags
• Restriction or avoidance of patient visits
• Isolation duration should be guided by clinical improvement and supported, where available, by negative PCR test results.

DISINFECTION REQUIREMENTS

Hantaviridae are enveloped viruses. According to European Standard EN 14885, disinfectants must demonstrate efficacy against enveloped viruses.

Relevant European standards supporting virucidal efficacy include:

• EN 14476 (basic virucidal activity)
• EN 16777 (surface disinfection without mechanical action)
• EN 17111 (instrument disinfection)
• EN 17272 (airborne disinfection)

Some National Organisation of Experts might publish recommendations with specific requirements regarding precautions or disinfectant product efficacy that must be applied locally.

Referenties:

• ECDC – Hantavirus infection - Hantavirus infection ; Rapid scientific advice on infection, prevention and control measures for patients in
• healthcare settings with Andes virus (ANDV) disease
• WHO - Hantavirus
• Ministère de la santé - https://solidarites-sante.gouv.fr/
• CDC– About Hantavirus | Hantavirus | CDC ;
• CDC - Facts About Hantaviruses. [https://stacks.cdc.gov/view/cdc/11878/cdc_11878_DS1.pdf]
• Institut Pasteur - Informations et recommandations sur les hantavirus - Institut Pasteur