Political figures and advocates promote ivermectin as hantavirus treatment
Updated
Updated · The Intercept · May 8
Political figures and advocates promote ivermectin as hantavirus treatment
5 articles · Updated · The Intercept · May 8
Marjorie Taylor Greene, Mary Talley Bowden and Josh Walkos pushed the drug online as authorities investigated an Andes virus cluster tied to an expedition cruise ship.
Experts from Johns Hopkins and Columbia said there is no clinical evidence ivermectin treats any hantavirus, warning misuse can cause serious neurological harm and fuel confusion during an outbreak.
The South Carolina House passed a bill to allow over-the-counter ivermectin sales, as the Andes strain, linked mainly to South America, remains notable for limited person-to-person spread and high mortality.
Why does a Nobel-winning drug spark fierce debate as a viral treatment, despite official warnings of its dangers?
As a deadly virus spreads from a cruise ship, what is being done to prevent the next floating outbreak?
With public trust in science collapsing, how can officials combat lethal medical misinformation during a health crisis?
Hantavirus Outbreak on MV Hondius: International Response, 8 Cases, 3 Deaths, and Misinformation Risks
Overview
In April and May 2026, the MV Hondius cruise ship became the center of a major hantavirus outbreak, drawing immediate international attention. Eight people linked to the ship were confirmed to have the virus, and three of them died. Health officials responded quickly, closely monitoring everyone who might have been exposed, since hantavirus can have a long incubation period. As of early May, no new cases had been reported beyond the initial group. The seriousness of the outbreak led to a coordinated response from global health organizations to prevent further spread and protect public health.