CDC Expands Andes Virus Testing Guidance After 10 Cruise-Linked Cases, as US Risk Stays Extremely Low
Updated
Updated · CDC · May 19
CDC Expands Andes Virus Testing Guidance After 10 Cruise-Linked Cases, as US Risk Stays Extremely Low
4 articles · Updated · CDC · May 19
May 18’s CDC Health Alert Network update told clinicians to immediately report suspected Andes virus cases and coordinate testing through state health departments and the agency’s Viral Special Pathogens Branch.
The alert was triggered by the M/V Hondius outbreak, which WHO said had reached 10 cases by May 15, including 8 laboratory-confirmed infections and 3 deaths.
CDC said no U.S. cases tied to the cruise outbreak had been confirmed as of May 18, but several states are monitoring U.S. passengers and air-travel contacts of symptomatic passengers later confirmed infected.
Andes virus is endemic in South America and is the only hantavirus known to spread person to person, though CDC said such transmission is rare and usually requires prolonged close contact.
The agency also warned clinicians not to overlook other hantaviruses: U.S. New World strains can cause hantavirus pulmonary syndrome after rodent exposure, while Seoul virus and other Old World strains can cause kidney-focused illness.
With a 60% fatality rate and a 45-day quarantine, is the Andes virus the next major threat to global health security?
A rare rodent virus now spreads between people on ships. What does this outbreak reveal about the future of cruise travel safety?
After a fatal outbreak at sea, how can authorities stop a virus that can spread before any symptoms even appear?
The 2026 MV Hondius Andes Virus Outbreak: Lessons in Cruise Ship Transmission, Global Response, and Future Preparedness
Overview
The Andes virus outbreak linked to the MV Hondius cruise ship in May 2026 drew immediate global attention, with the WHO Director-General publicly addressing the situation and highlighting coordinated international efforts. Authorities responded quickly by disembarking passengers at Granadilla Port, where officers in CBRN protective suits underscored the seriousness of containment measures. These actions reflect a strong focus on preventing further transmission and protecting both the public and response teams. The outbreak demonstrates the importance of rapid, high-level public health responses and the need for strict biohazard controls in managing emerging infectious threats.