New Delhi, May 8: The Union Health Ministry has activated high-level surveillance measures following a Hantavirus outbreak onboard the cruise ship MV Hondius, coordinating closely with national and international health agencies to prevent any potential domestic transmission.

According to senior officials, the ministry, along with the National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC), the World Health Organisation (WHO), and other global partners, has stepped up monitoring under the International Health Regulations (IHR) framework. Preliminary reports confirm eight probable cases of Hantavirus infection, of which five have been laboratory-confirmed, while three deaths have been reported since the WHO was first informed earlier this month.

Health authorities believe the outbreak is linked to the Andes strain of Hantavirus, which is distinct in its ability to allow limited human-to-human transmission. Officials clarified that such transmission generally requires close and prolonged contact, and the overall global risk remains low. However, caution persists due to the virus’s long incubation period, which could result in additional cases among passengers and crew still under observation.

The WHO is coordinating the international response under the IHR mechanism, with measures including strengthening diagnostic support, conducting epidemiological assessments, and ensuring safe disembarkation and onward travel arrangements for passengers and crew.

Information received through IHR channels indicates that two Indian nationals are currently onboard the vessel. Both individuals are asymptomatic and are being monitored under established international health protocols.

In response to the evolving situation, the Public Health Emergency Operations Centre under the Integrated Disease Surveillance Programme (IDSP) and the NCDC convened a high-level review meeting involving senior officials from IDSP and IHR-NFP India. The meeting assessed the outbreak and reviewed preparedness measures to safeguard public health.

Also Read: Hantavirus Outbreak On Atlantic Cruise Ship; Three Dead, One Critical

The Union Health Ministry emphasized that it remains vigilant and is maintaining close coordination with the WHO and other global health partners. Precautionary measures have been initiated to protect Indian citizens, with authorities stressing that surveillance and preparedness are critical to preventing any spread of the virus domestically.

The outbreak has highlighted the importance of international cooperation in managing emerging infectious diseases, with India’s health authorities ensuring readiness to respond to potential risks.