HAN 05/14/26

Update for Alabama Providers: Hantavirus Outbreak Linked to M/V Hondius Cruise Ship—Current Risk Remains Extremely Low

The Alabama Department of Public Health (ADPH) is closely monitoring the evolving hantavirus outbreak linked to the M/V Hondius cruise ship, although no Alabamians were among the ship’s passengers or crew members. Currently, there are no cases of hantavirus in Alabama, and the risk of infection remains extremely low. Routine travel can continue as normal. ADPH will provide updated guidance to healthcare providers and travelers as more information becomes available.

Clinical Overview, Diagnosis, and Treatment

Symptoms of hantavirus infection typically develop between 4 and 42 days after exposure and may include fever (≥ 100.4˚F), fatigue, deep muscle aches, and, in some cases, severe respiratory distress. These symptoms are non-specific, so laboratory testing is often required for definitive diagnosis. There is currently no specific treatment for hantavirus infection; management is supportive and includes rest, hydration, and symptom relief.

If hantavirus pulmonary syndrome (HPS) is suspected, patients should receive emergency medical care immediately—preferably in the intensive care unit—even before the diagnosis is confirmed. For patients with known or suspected Andes virus infection, the CDC recommends placing them in an airborne infection isolation room (AIIR) and using a gown, gloves, eye protection, and an N95 or higher-level respirator when entering the patient's room.

HPS is a serious illness, but prompt recognition and supportive care can improve outcomes. About 38% of people who develop respiratory symptoms may experience severe complications.

Laboratory Testing

Currently, the ADPH Bureau of Clinical Laboratories (BCL) cannot test for hantavirus infection in-house. However, serology tests for the detection of New World hantavirus IgG and IgM antibodies are available through the CDC, some state public health laboratories (including those using the CDC-developed assay or other diagnostic assays), and Quest Diagnostics™. This type of testing can be used to diagnose both HPS and hemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome (HFRS). Pre-approval is required for all hantavirus test requests at the CDC and will be coordinated through the BCL. Clinicians with a patient experiencing symptoms compatible with HPS AND who have had potential exposure to rodents, or a symptomatic case-patient with Andes virus infection, should call the Alabama Department of Public Health at 1-800-338-8374 to request a hantavirus consultation.

How to Report Hantavirus Cases to ADPH

Hantavirus-positive cases can be reported to ADPH via the REPORT Card for Reportable Diseases/Conditions by selecting “Case of public health importance” from the drop-down menu.

Additional Resources

• 2026 Multi-country Hantavirus Cluster Linked to Cruise Ship CDC HAN
• About Hantavirus (CDC)
• Clinician Brief (CDC)
• Isolation Precautions (CDC)
• Hantavirus Outbreak Toolkit (CDC)
• Hantavirus (ADPH)
• REPORT Card for Reportable Diseases/Conditions