The Caribbean Public Health Agency (CARPHA) has briefed regional media on the ongoing Hantavirus outbreak linked to the international expedition cruise vessel MV Hondius, stressing that the overall risk to the Caribbean public remains low.
The media briefing was held on Monday, 11 May 2026, at 11:00 a.m., with CARPHA Executive Director Dr. Lisa Indar providing an update on the situation and the agency’s regional response.
According to CARPHA, the outbreak was originally reported to the World Health Organization on 2 May 2026 as a cluster of passengers with severe respiratory illness aboard the Dutch-registered vessel, which departed Argentina on 1 April 2026 on a South Atlantic tour.
As of 11 May, eight confirmed and suspected cases had been identified by the WHO, including three reported deaths. Passengers and crew originated from 28 countries, and several individuals were disembarked or medically evacuated to different jurisdictions, prompting international contact tracing.
CARPHA said the outbreak is linked to the Andes strain of Hantavirus, a rodent-borne viral disease found primarily in parts of South America, including Argentina. The agency noted that the rodent species that maintains this virus in nature is not present in the Caribbean, meaning there is no established local source of transmission in the region.
Dr. Indar explained that while the Andes strain is unusual because limited human-to-human transmission has been observed, such transmission is rare and usually requires close or prolonged contact. CARPHA also emphasized that Hantavirus does not spread like COVID-19 or influenza.
The agency advised the public to remain vigilant but not alarmed. It said its regional early-warning surveillance and laboratory systems are actively monitoring the situation and are prepared to detect and respond to any public health threat if needed.
CARPHA said its assessment, aligned with international partners including the WHO, CDC and UKHSA, is that the overall risk to the Caribbean remains low.
The agency encouraged the public to continue practicing good hygiene, including frequent handwashing, avoiding close contact with persons who are unwell, and taking precautions in areas where rodents may be present.
CARPHA said the situation highlights the importance of rapid international coordination, contact tracing and isolation measures in preventing the spread of rare but potentially serious diseases.