Hantavirus Outbreak on Luxury Cruise: WHO Warns of Potential Spread

Italy's health ministry announced that four individuals tested negative for hantavirus, while the World Health Organization (WHO) continues to monitor an outbreak originating from a luxury cruise ship. The virus is primarily spread through rodents, but human transmission in rare cases requires close contact.

Three people have died since the outbreak began, with WHO confirming nine cases and suspecting two additional cases. Health ministers across Europe are convening to coordinate their response and manage potential new cases.

Despite the outbreak, the European risk remains low, as confirmed by Italy where tests on four suspected individuals returned negative results. The incubation period may last up to six weeks, stressing the importance of close monitoring and coordination among health authorities.

(With inputs from agencies.)