Hantavirus Update (May 12, 2026)

Ajouté : 2026-05-17

[00:00:00]Let's talk about hantavirus. A lot of people are concerned right now because of the cluster of hantavirus cases linked to a Dutch cruise ship, and we've received a number of questions from Boston residents. What we know is that 18 passengers who are on board the ship have been flown to quarantine facilities here in the US. But please note, the risk to the public remains low.

[00:00:19]Hantavirus is not a new pathogen. Public health authorities are familiar with this virus and have successfully contained outbreaks of hantavirus in the past. It is transmitted most often through direct contact with the urine, feces, or of infected rodents. However, the species of hantavirus that has been identified in this cluster, the Andes virus, can spread from person to person through direct contact. But here in Boston, there are currently, as of today, no known cases of hantavirus and no known exposures to hantavirus. Our teams here at the Boston Public Health Commission are closely monitoring the situation along with state and federal authorities. And as information evolves, we will keep you informed on how this may impact Boston. You can find up-to-date information about hantavirus online at boston.gov/hantavirus.

[00:01:04]Thank you, and be well.