Many retirees planning summer cruises are suddenly hearing an unfamiliar and alarming word in the headlines: hantavirus. The concern intensified after a recent multi-country outbreak linked to the expedition cruise ship MV Hondius led to several deaths, international quarantines, and health monitoring efforts involving travelers from multiple countries. Health officials stress that the overall public risk remains low, but older adults may still want to understand how the illness spreads.
According to the CDC, the outbreak involves the Andes virus strain of hantavirus, which is rare but notable because limited person-to-person transmission has been documented in South America. Here is what you need to know about this virus and how it may impact your travel plans.
