CARPHA Says Caribbean Risk Remains Low After Hantavirus Outbreak

The Caribbean Public Health Agency (CARPHA) says the risk to the Caribbean remains low as it monitors an international hantavirus outbreak linked to the Dutch-registered cruise vessel MV Hondius, which has reported cases of severe respiratory illness and several deaths.

Speaking at a media briefing on Monday, CARPHA Executive Director Dr. Lisa Indar said the agency is working with the World Health Organization (WHO), the U.S. CDC, and other partners as investigations continue.

As of May 11, eight cases, confirmed and suspected, have been identified, along with three deaths. Passengers and crew on board the vessel come from 28 countries, including the United States, United Kingdom, Philippines, and the Netherlands. Several people have been medically evacuated or repatriated, with international contact tracing now underway.

The ship left Argentina on April 1, 2026, and was flagged to the WHO on May 2 after a cluster of respiratory illnesses was reported on board.

CARPHA says the outbreak is linked to the Andes strain of hantavirus, which is the only known type that can spread between people, though only in rare cases and through very close, prolonged contact.

Dr. Indar explained that hantavirus is mainly a rodent-borne disease found in many parts of the world. The specific rodent that carries the Andes strain is not found in the Caribbean, meaning there is no local source of transmission in the region.

The incubation period is usually one to six weeks, and there is no specific treatment or vaccine. Care is supportive, including oxygen and intensive monitoring.

CARPHA stressed that hantavirus does not spread easily between people and is very different from viruses like COVID-19 or influenza.

“COVID-19 spreads easily between people. Hantavirus does not,” Dr. Indar said, noting that the risk of large-scale spread is very low.

CARPHA said its surveillance systems were activated immediately after notification, including a watching brief issued on May 5, daily monitoring, and coordination with regional health authorities.

The agency added that its assessment, along with the WHO, CDC, and UK health authorities, is that the risk to the Caribbean remains low.

CARPHA is urging the public to maintain basic hygiene, avoid contact with rodents, and stay informed through official updates.