Health officials in several U.S. states are now monitoring passengers and possible contacts after a deadly hantavirus outbreak was linked to the MV Hondius cruise ship.
According to reports citing health authorities, Virginia, Georgia, California, Arizona, and Texas are tracking passengers and people who may have crossed paths with them. New Jersey is also monitoring individuals who may have interacted with someone connected to the ship.
The outbreak has been linked to at least three deaths and eight reported cases as of May 8. The World Health Organization previously reported a cluster of severe respiratory illness connected to cruise ship travel, with several confirmed and suspected hantavirus cases.
The MV Hondius has drawn international attention, with passengers being treated with caution and monitored by health agencies. European health officials said passengers aboard the ship are considered high-risk contacts as a precaution, even though public health experts say the overall risk to the general public remains low.
Hantavirus is usually associated with exposure to infected rodents, especially through their urine, droppings, or saliva. The CDC says human infection can become serious and may lead to severe respiratory illness.
Authorities continue to monitor exposed passengers and possible contacts while investigating how the outbreak began and whether anyone else may have been exposed.