Are there risk factors for spread of Hantavirus?
The risk to the public is currently low, the World Health Organization Representation in Azerbaijan said in response to APA's inquiry.
WHO is working with several countries to respond quickly within the framework of the International Health Regulations. The focus is on patient care, safety, and stopping further spread.
People usually get hantavirus from contact with infected rodents—especially their urine, droppings, or saliva. Sometimes, breathing in contaminated dust can cause infection. Rarely, rodent bites can also spread the virus.
Activities that increase risk include cleaning closed or poorly ventilated areas, farming, forestry work, or staying in places where rodents are present.
Person-to-person spread is very rare and has only been seen with the Andes virus in the Americas. When it happens, it usually involves close, long contact, such as between family members or partners, especially early in the illness.
What is the situation in the neighboring and other countries in the region?
WHO has informed 12 countries whose citizens were on the ship. These include Canada, Denmark, Germany, the Netherlands, New Zealand, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Singapore, Sweden, Switzerland, Türkiye, the United Kingdom, and the United States.
WHO is also helping South Africa follow up with people who were on a related flight. International contact tracing is ongoing. Passengers have been informed and asked to report any symptoms. WHO stresses the importance of quickly identifying and managing any suspected cases through testing, treatment, and isolation if needed. WHO is also working closely with Argentina, which has experience managing this type of virus, to better understand the situation and improve response efforts.
Are there laboratory facilities in Azerbaijan for diagnosing this virus?
Yes. Azerbaijan has the capacity to test for hantavirus using PCR methods in both human and animal health laboratories.
WHO is also working with laboratories across Europe to ensure reliable testing for the Andes virus.
If needed, samples can be safely sent to specialized WHO reference laboratories for confirmation.
WHO will soon release updated laboratory guidance to support testing across the region.
What global trends does WHO currently observe regarding hantavirus?
WHO considers the overall global risk low. For people who were on the ship, the risk is considered moderate.
Hantavirus does not spread easily. It usually spreads from rodents to humans, and human-to-human transmission is very rare. There are thousands of cases globally each year, which is not a large number compared to the world population. The situation on the ship is being handled carefully to reduce risk.
Is there currently a specific vaccine or effective treatment for hantavirus?
No. There is currently no vaccine or specific antiviral treatment for hantavirus.
Care focuses on monitoring patients closely and treating problems with the lungs, heart, or kidneys. Getting medical care early can improve outcomes. People should not rely on unproven treatments, as these can delay proper care. If you think you may have been exposed, contact your health authority for advice.
What symptoms should people seek immediate medical attention for?
Symptoms usually begin between one and eight weeks after exposure.
Common symptoms include: Fever, Fatigue, Breathing difficulties (which can worsen quickly)
Other possible symptoms include: Headache, Muscle pain, Abdominal pain, Nausea or vomiting.
What is the main call from WHO to the population?
The return of passengers and crew is being carefully managed to keep everyone safe while respecting their dignity. The risk to the general public remains low. Hantavirus is rare and does not spread easily between people. Because this is the first known outbreak on a ship, authorities are taking extra precautions. These measures are in place to detect any cases early and respond quickly if needed. This careful approach helps protect public health while ensuring transparency.
What communities should—and should not—do
Do:
- Continue normal daily activities
- Follow advice from public health authorities
- Get information from trusted sources
Do not:
- Spread rumors or unverified information
- Avoid or stigmatize passengers or crew
