Hantavirus: risk to public remains low

Statement by WHO Regional Director for Europe, Dr Hans Henri P. Kluge

Copenhagen, 4 May 2026

We are acting with urgency to support the response to the hantavirus event on board a cruise vessel in the Atlantic, following the tragic loss of life.

WHO/Europe is working with the countries involved to support medical care, evacuation, investigations and public health risk assessment.

I am in close contact with our teams to ensure a coordinated, science-based response. I thank the South African authorities for their rapid support, including care for a UK patient.

Hantavirus infections are uncommon and usually linked to exposure to infected rodents. While severe in some cases, it is not easily transmitted between people.

The risk to the wider public remains low. There is no need for panic or travel restrictions.

Having just returned from the African continent, where I discussed closer collaboration on health emergencies, this is a timely reminder: health threats do not respect borders. Working together is how we protect people.

ENDS

eupress@who.int