STATE EP Alert 5.15.2026
Andes Strain Hantavirus Associated with the Cruise Ship MV Hondius
The New York State Department of Health (DOH) has issued a health advisory regarding a cluster of hantavirus pulmonary syndrome cases associated with the cruise ship MV Hondius.
The outbreak involves the Andes strain of hantavirus, which differs from hantavirus strains typically seen in the United States because it has demonstrated the potential for person-to-person transmission through close contact. As of May 14, 2026, 11 cases, including 3 deaths, have been identified among individuals onboard the vessel.
At this time, the DOH emphasizes that the risk to New Yorkers remains extremely low. Three New Yorkers identified as contacts from the cruise are currently asymptomatic and undergoing monitoring outside of New York State. There are currently no reported cases of Andes virus disease in New York or among US residents.
Home care providers should remain aware of the advisory and encourage staff to follow standard infection prevention and control practices. Providers should also remain attentive to patients or staff reporting recent travel to South America or exposure connected to the outbreak.
According to the DOH, testing should only be considered for patients with compatible symptoms and epidemiologic risk factors, including travel to endemic regions or known exposure risks. Treatment is supportive, and there is currently no vaccine available.
HCP will continue monitoring updates from the Department of Health and federal public health authorities.
