A hantavirus outbreak on the MV Hondius cruise ship has infected at least seven people, raising concerns about pandemic potential. - The Andes strain of hantavirus has a reproduction number of 2.1, similar to early COVID-19.
- Experts suggest airborne transmission is possible, contradicting WHO reassurances. - The incubation period can be up to 40 days, complicating contact tracing.
- A Dutch passenger died after flying from St. Helena to South Africa, with 97 contacts identified.
The incident highlights ongoing gaps in pandemic preparedness, as lessons from past outbreaks remain unheeded.