Officials in Arizona, Georgia monitoring some hantavirus cruise ship passengers who have returned to US

Hantavirus Cases Remain Rare

Although hantavirus infections are uncommon in the United States, cases do occasionally occur — particularly in areas where rodent exposure is more likely. Southwestern states have historically reported some of the higher case numbers due to deer mouse populations known to carry the virus.

Experts stress that casual contact with people who may have been exposed generally does not pose a significant risk to the public.

Prevention Tips

Health agencies recommend several ways to reduce hantavirus risk:

• Avoid contact with rodents and rodent nests
• Wear gloves and masks when cleaning contaminated areas
• Ventilate enclosed spaces before cleaning
• Disinfect surfaces rather than sweeping dry droppings
• Store food securely to discourage rodents

Travelers who recently returned from the cruise are encouraged to stay informed through local health departments and contact healthcare providers if they begin experiencing symptoms.

As investigations continue, officials say the overall public risk currently appears low, but monitoring remains ongoing out of caution.