There has been a lot of media attention recently on an outbreak of Andes virus (ANDV) on an international cruise in the Atlantic Ocean. The risk to the public in San Mateo County remains extremely low.”  

What is Hantavirus?  

Hantavirus is a group of viruses that spread through the urine, droppings (feces), and saliva of wild rodents. Hantaviruses include both the Sin Nombre and Andes virus strains. The Andes hantavirus identified in this cruise ship outbreak is found in the southern Andes region of Argentina and Chile. Andes hantavirus has also been associated with rare human to human transmission after close, prolonged contact with an ill infected person. 

Andes hantavirus is different than the Sin Nombre hantavirus, which is native to California and North America. Sin Nombre hantavirus has not been associated with person-to-person transmission. 

Where can I learn more?  

The California Department of Public Health and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention are posting updates about hantavirus and the response to the outbreak aboard the cruise ship.

CDPH Hantavirus Infection 

CDC Andes Virus Outbreak on a Cruise Ship: Current Situation