Amid international reports relating to a cluster of Hanta virus cases recorded on the international cruise ship MV Hondius, the Viet Nam Administration of Disease Prevention under the Ministry of Health said that, according to information from the World Health Organization (WHO), as of May 8, the disease cluster on board the MV Hondius recorded eight cases, including three deaths. Of the eight cases, two patients died before testing could be conducted, while six tested positive for the Hanta virus; they were all identified as carrying the Andes virus (ANDV) strain.
WHO assessed the risk level for passengers and crew members on board the vessel as moderate, while the risk level for the global population remains low.
WHO also stressed that the transmission route of the Hanta virus differs from that of COVID-19. WHO continues to monitor epidemiological developments and update its risk assessment.
So far, no Vietnamese citizens linked to the above-mentioned disease cluster have been recorded. The Viet Nam Administration of Disease Prevention has issued a document requesting localities to strengthen monitoring at border gates and surveillance at medical examination and treatment facilities; conduct sanitation and disinfection of vehicles; implement vector control and rodent extermination measures; and proactively apply appropriate disease prevention and control measures.
The Viet Nam Administration of Disease Prevention stated that, for Viet Nam, diseases caused by the Hanta virus are not an entirely new issue in epidemiological surveillance. However, based on a review of currently available scientific information, Viet Nam has not recorded any cases caused by the Andes virus strain. Previous studies in Viet Nam mainly identified evidence related to several other Hanta virus strains, such as the Seoul virus or Hanta viruses detected in animals.
Therefore, it said the public should not panic nor worry but instead follow official information and avoid speculating that the disease cluster on the international cruise ship could develop into a widespread community outbreak in Viet Nam.
The administration recommended that people continue implementing environmental sanitation and rodent control measures to prevent rodent-to-human transmitted diseases, in line with recommendations previously announced by the Ministry of Health on May 5.
If, after contact with rodents, rodent waste, or areas showing signs of rodent activity, people develop symptoms such as fever, muscle pain, fatigue, digestive disorders, cough, chest tightness, or breathing difficulties, they should promptly visit medical facilities and report their exposure history for consultation, examination, diagnosis, and appropriate treatment.
The Viet Nam Administration of Disease Prevention will continue coordinating with WHO and relevant agencies to update developments, assess risks and implement appropriate response measures, while promptly informing the public of any new developments.
