Recently, the health sector has been shaken by a new virus coming into the spotlight. This new virus is called the Hanta virus. Although the existence of this virus has long been noticed by health experts, sudden deaths caused by this virus have created an uproar in the world, leading to speculation about whether this could create a situation similar to COVID-19.
As per media reports, recently, three death cases have been reported due to this virus. An MV Hondius cruise ship sailing from Argentina’s Ushuaia to Antarctica on March 20 reportedly had cases of the Hanta virus. There were a total of 143 passengers from 23 countries onboard. Among them, 3 were infected by this virus and died, while 5 other people fell sick after showing symptoms of the Hanta virus.
People who are showing symptoms are now hospitalized and being monitored by healthcare authorities, whereas the Argentine authorities are trying to locate the source of this virus outbreak on the Atlantic cruise ship.
As per the situation, this virus is deadly and can severely affect the human body, but what is this Hanta virus, and where did it come from?
Hanta virus is a group of viruses that spread mainly through rodents. A person who comes into contact with rats and mice can be affected through their dried urine, droppings, feces, or saliva. Once this virus infects humans, it is suspected to transmit from human to human.
The ship carrying the people had gone to different parts of countries and nations. Although, as reported by the BBC, those who were on the ship will have to undergo checks before heading to their homes, it is still creating fear that the virus may spread among humans around the world.
As per health experts, higher temperatures may increase the virus range because, as the weather gets warmer, viruses coming from rodents can flourish. Looking at this, India is currently reportedly considered a warmer country, as its temperature has been rising day by day.
Experts also suggest that there is no evidence that this virus has spread or been exposed beyond the ship.
Amid this, the WHO has also issued an advisory, but along with that, the WHO’s top epidemic expert, Maria Van Kerkhove, said that this is not COVID, but it is a serious infectious disease. She also said that most people will never be exposed to this virus.
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