Maryland Residents Monitored After Potential Hantavirus Exposure

Two Maryland residents are being monitored for potential hantavirus exposure, according to the Maryland Department of Health. The individuals were on a flight with a passenger from the M/V Hondius cruise ship who was infected with the virus. Health officials emphasize that the risk to the public in Maryland remains "very low" but are taking precautionary measures.

The M/V Hondius, a Dutch-flagged cruise ship, experienced an outbreak of Andes hantavirus, the only known hantavirus capable of person-to-person transmission. The outbreak resulted in three deaths and several confirmed cases among passengers and crew. The ship departed from Ushuaia, Argentina, on April 1, 2026, and has since been involved in international health coordination efforts.

Hantaviruses are typically transmitted to humans through contact with infected rodents or their excreta. However, the Andes virus variant can spread between people through close and prolonged contact. Early symptoms include fatigue, fever, and muscle aches, progressing to coughing and shortness of breath in severe cases. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that approximately 38% of individuals who develop respiratory symptoms may die from the disease.

Maryland health officials are coordinating with federal agencies and international health organizations to monitor the situation and ensure public safety. They advise residents to remain vigilant but not to panic, as the overall risk remains low.