AKIPRESS.COM - The World Health Organization (WHO) has officially declared the end of the hantavirus outbreak on the cruise ship MV Hondius after the final passenger completed quarantine and tested negative for the virus.

The outbreak, caused by the rare Andes virus strain, resulted in 13 infections and three deaths.

The ship began its voyage from Argentina on April 1, with initial infections linked to passengers who had previously visited rodent habitats in South America during a bird-watching trip.

Health experts believe human-to-human transmission likely occurred due to close contact on board.

While the immediate threat has subsided, WHO officials emphasized that hantaviruses remain a public health concern in endemic regions and urged continued vigilance and preparation to monitor for potential future spread.