Who declares end of hantavirus outbreak on cruise ship

World Health Organization Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus announced the end of the hantavirus outbreak linked to the cruise ship MV Hondius on July 2, 2026. During a press conference in Geneva, he confirmed that the last person under quarantine had tested negative, marking the end of active monitoring. No new cases have been recorded since May 25. The outbreak resulted in 13 total confirmed cases, including three deaths. Health authorities across 33 countries successfully identified and monitored over 650 contacts during the response period. While the specific origin of the virus on the ship remains unidentified, the WHO is coordinating a 21-country investigation to better understand the disease's evolution. This research aims to facilitate the future development of diagnostic tools, treatments, and vaccines. Hantavirus is typically rare, with no current specialized vaccine or cure, making this international coordination vital for future preparedness.