Andes Hantavirus: From Rodent-Borne Disease to Human-to-Human Transmission (xataka.com)

• Genetic sequencing confirmed clonal virus samples from patients in close contact.
• Transmission requires close contact; not airborne like flu.
• WHO/PAHO raised alert after Antarctica cruise ship deaths.

"Early understanding held that hantavirus, specifically the Andes variant, was solely a zoonosis transmitted through rodent excreta. However, outbreaks in Argentina and Chile, particularly the Epuyén cluster, provided genetic evidence of limited person-to-person transmission. The Malbrán Institute confirmed via next-generation sequencing that patient isolates were clonal, indicating direct human transmission. Transmission occurs only through close contact (intimate partners, cohabitants, caregivers) because the virus is present in saliva and respiratory secretions. Some individuals may have high viral loads and act as super-spreaders. A recent outbreak on the MV Hondius cruise ship in Antarctica, with deaths linked to the Andes strain, led WHO/PAHO to elevate protocols. The long incubation period (weeks) complicates containment. A global pandemic is considered unlikely due to low transmissibility."