12.05.2026 14:40
WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus stated that there are currently no signs of a larger outbreak due to hantavirus, but case numbers may increase in the coming weeks. Noting that 11 cases and 3 deaths have been reported so far on a Dutch-flagged passenger ship, Ghebreyesus said the global health risk remains low. WHO recommended that passengers be kept under health surveillance for 42 days.
World Health Organization (WHO) Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus stated that there is currently no sign of a larger outbreak regarding the hantavirus, but new cases may be seen in the coming weeks.
11 CASES, 3 DEATHS ON THE SHIP
Speaking at a press conference in Madrid, the capital of Spain, Ghebreyesus said that 11 hantavirus cases have been detected so far on the Dutch-flagged passenger ship "MV Hondius", with 3 of them losing their lives.
Ghebreyesus noted that all cases were seen among passengers and crew on the ship, and reported that 9 of the 11 cases were confirmed as the Andes virus.
“GLOBAL HEALTH RISK IS LOW”
Stating that according to WHO's current assessment, the global health risk remains at a low level, Ghebreyesus said, "There is currently no sign that we are seeing the beginning of a larger outbreak. However, due to the virus's long incubation period, we may see more cases in the coming weeks."
Ghebreyesus reported that the health status of passengers is being monitored, and it is recommended to apply observation for 42 days from the date of last contact.
“WE EXPECT MORE CASES”
Ghebreyesus said the first case on the ship was seen on April 6, and noted that passengers being in contact with each other for a long time increases the risk of transmission. The WHO Director stated that the virus has an incubation period of 6 to 8 weeks, and therefore warned that new cases may emerge.
GAZA MESSAGE: HEALTH SYSTEM HAS COLLAPSED
Referring to the situation in Gaza during the press conference, Ghebreyesus said the health infrastructure in the region has largely collapsed. Emphasizing that hundreds of aid trucks should enter Gaza daily, the WHO Director expressed that access to health services remains at a minimum level.