Multiple US states have ordered health monitoring for passengers who sailed on a cruise ship hit by a hantavirus outbreak and have since returned to their homes, the New York Times reports.

Hantavirus is a severe respiratory disease transmitted by rodents. Several cases emerged on an ocean cruise, drawing international attention.

Health officials say monitoring measures include regular temperature checks and symptom reporting to prevent further community spread. So far, no large-scale community transmission has been detected.

The World Health Organization has issued related travel advisories.

A norovirus outbreak aboard a Princess cruise ship departing from Fort Lauderdale has sickened 115 passengers and crew members. The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is monitoring the situation as the ship continues on its scheduled itinerary.

Source: New York Times

The World Health Organization has confirmed at least one case of hantavirus infection aboard an Atlantic cruise ship, with five additional suspected cases under investigation. Three passengers have died in what officials are describing as a suspected virus outbreak.

Details

Health authorities have launched a full investigation into the source and spread of the illness. Hantavirus is typically transmitted through contact with rodent droppings, urine, or saliva. It can cause hantavirus pulmonary syndrome, a severe respiratory disease with a mortality rate of approximately 36 percent.

Response

The WHO said it is working closely with the cruise line and port authorities to contain the potential outbreak and identify all exposed passengers and crew members. All close contacts are under medical observation.