The number of hantavirus infections linked to a cruise ship outbreak has risen to 13, with health authorities continuing quarantine and monitoring measures for exposed passengers, the World Health Organization (WHO) said.
WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said in a post on X that Spain had reported a new case among quarantined passengers, bringing the total confirmed infections to 13.
He said the outbreak has so far resulted in three deaths, with no new fatalities reported since May 2.
The affected passengers are being treated, while others remain under quarantine and active medical observation, according to WHO updates.
The outbreak is linked to the Dutch-flagged cruise ship MV Hondius, which previously triggered concern after cases of hantavirus infection were identified among passengers onboard.
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Despite the cluster of infections, the World Health Organization has assessed the overall public health risk as low, noting that the situation remains stable and under close international monitoring.
Hantavirus is a rare but serious disease typically transmitted to humans through contact with infected rodents or their droppings, and is not known to spread easily between people in most circumstances.
WHO said it is working closely with affected governments to track cases and ensure proper quarantine and medical care for exposed individuals.
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Passengers who were potentially exposed are being monitored for up to 42 days from their last contact, either in designated facilities or at home, with the observation period expected to continue until June 21.
Health authorities say the extended monitoring period is a precautionary measure aimed at preventing any further spread while ensuring early detection of symptoms among those at risk.
While isolated outbreaks have occurred in confined environments before, experts say cruise ships can pose unique challenges for infection control due to close contact among passengers and crew.
The WHO reiterated that there is currently no evidence of widespread transmission beyond the identified cluster, and no indication of a broader public health emergency.
