Hantavirus Spread: New Cases Registered

New cases of suspected hantavirus hospitalizations have been recorded in Canada. Three individuals have been hospitalized.

Bonnie Henry, the head of the health service of British Columbia, reported a preliminary positive diagnosis of hantavirus in one of the passengers of the MV Hondius cruise ship. This individual has been transferred to a medical center in Victoria along with their partner, where necessary examinations are being conducted. The patient has exhibited mild symptoms, including headaches and fever, but their health condition is stable.

In order to confirm the specific diagnosis, biological samples have been sent to the National Microbiology Laboratory in Winnipeg. Additionally, a third individual, who was isolated at the same hotel, has also been transferred to the hospital as a preventive measure, despite their partner's test results being negative. A fourth passenger remains under home quarantine, monitored daily by doctors.

Overall, the four Canadians found at the outbreak site arrived in their home country on May 10 and immediately underwent mandatory 21-day isolation. At the time of their arrival, no symptoms of illness were noted among them.

Meanwhile, experts from France's Pasteur Institute have conducted a full genomic analysis of the Andes virus found in a French passenger from the same ship. The tests confirmed that the pathogen matches 97% with known strains transmitted by rodents in South America. According to Jean-Claude Manuguerra, head of the Laboratory’s Environment and Infectious Risks Division, no changes in the virus structure were observed that would indicate an increase in its danger or spread rate. It is worth noting that since April 11, three people have died from an infection on the aforementioned cruise ship.