The World Health Organization has declared that the risk of hantavirus spread among the global population is extremely low.

WHO has ensured that the risk of hantavirus transmission among the global population is 'absolutely low', following an outbreak on the cruise ship MV Hondius, where three passengers died. Christian Lindmeier, a spokesperson for WHO, explained that the virus is only dangerous for infected individuals, and close contact does not guarantee transmission. The ship, which departed from Ushuaia, Argentina, is heading to Tenerife, and so far five cases of infection have been confirmed.

A stewardess who came into contact with a deceased passenger tested negative, which is considered good news. In the UK, a third citizen has been diagnosed as a suspected hantavirus case, and the risks for the residents of Saint Helena have been assessed as minimal. WHO emphasized that isolation and testing measures are in place for individuals who may be infected.