Geneva: The World Health Organization (WHO) chief announced that the hantavirus outbreak associated with a cruise ship has escalated to 12 confirmed cases. Health authorities are actively monitoring hundreds of contacts globally to control the spread of the virus.

According to Anadolu Agency, Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, speaking at a press briefing in Geneva, confirmed that the Netherlands reported an additional case. This case involves a crew member who disembarked in Tenerife and, after being repatriated, has been in isolation since returning home. Tedros reported, "There are now 12 reported cases and 3 reported deaths," and noted that no new fatalities have occurred since May 2, when the outbreak was initially reported to the WHO.

Tedros emphasized the importance of continued vigilance by affected countries, urging them to monitor all passengers and crew members meticulously throughout the quarantine period. He stated that over 600 contacts across 30 countries are currently under surveillance, with efforts ongoing to locate a few high-risk contacts.

He expressed gratitude towards countries participating in the international response and epidemiological investigation, highlighting the cooperative efforts of Argentina, Cabo Verde, Chile, the Netherlands, South Africa, Spain, the UK, and the EU.

Hantavirus is typically a rare illness transmitted through contact with infected rodents or their droppings. However, the strain involved in this outbreak, known as the Andes virus, is capable of human-to-human transmission through prolonged close contact, particularly in enclosed environments.