Arizona Man Monitored After Hantavirus Exposure: Why Experts Aren’t Alarmed

A new viral outbreak is in the news. These days, hearing about a dangerous virus often reminds us of the COVID-19 years.

Health officials want people to know that the recent Hantavirus outbreak on the cruise ship MV Hondius is not the same as COVID-19. Organizations like the CDC are taking it seriously, but say there is no major concern for the public right now.

Get our free mobile app

What is Hantavirus?

According to the University of Arizona Cooperative Extension, Hantavirus is not new to Arizona. The state has had cases for decades, mostly linked to the Sin Nombre virus, which is usually carried by deer mice in the Four Corners region.

People usually get sick by inhaling particles from rodent urine, droppings, or saliva, especially when these are stirred up into the air. Arizona has had a few small outbreaks, and in 2024, a rare but serious outbreak led to a few deaths and a statewide alert, according to MDLinx.com.

RELATED: Concern in Arizona Over Rise in Measles Cases

The strain from the MV Hondius outbreak is different. The cruise ship outbreak was caused by the Andes virus, a South American hantavirus spread by infected rodents. Authorities are concerned because it is the only hantavirus known to spread from person to person.

This virus usually spreads through close, extended contact with someone who is already sick. It is different from the strain found in Arizona, but health officials say the risk to the public is still low.

The MV Hondius Connection

The number of MV Hondius passengers who may have been exposed to the virus is increasing. So far, three passengers from the cruise ship have died. The World Health Organization is monitoring about 100 passengers who are still on board.

An Arizona resident who was on the MV Hondius is being watched for symptoms. The Arizona Department of Health Services quickly contacted the passenger and placed them under precautionary monitoring. So far, this person has not shown any symptoms.

READ ALSO: Is Arizona Prepared? What the New COVID-19 Variant Means

What Health Officials Are Saying

State health officials say the resident has no symptoms, is being monitored for the usual 42-day period, and does not pose a risk to the public. Other states are also monitoring people who were on the ship, and so far, no returning U.S. passengers have shown any signs of illness.

Even though the headlines may sound dramatic, the risk in Arizona is low. One local resident is being monitored, feels fine, and poses no danger to others. Health officials are handling the situation and keeping everyone informed. In short, another COVID-pandemic-style lockdown is not imminent.