Canada Monitoring Andes Hantavirus Exposure Linked to Antarctic Cruise Ship

Canadian public health officials say nine people across the country are currently being monitored following potential exposure to Andes hantavirus connected to passengers aboard the expedition cruise vessel MV Hondius. Federal authorities continue to describe the overall threat to the wider public as low, though strict containment measures remain in place as health agencies track the evolving situation.

The Public Health Agency of Canada confirmed Tuesday that four Canadian travellers returned safely to British Columbia on May 10 after being aboard the affected vessel. Upon arrival, the passengers underwent multiple health assessments before being transferred into dedicated accommodations where they are now completing mandatory self-isolation periods under the supervision of local public health authorities.

Officials said none of the four individuals have shown symptoms associated with Andes hantavirus. They are being actively monitored during an isolation period expected to last a minimum of 21 days and potentially up to 42 days. The monitoring window began on May 10, identified as the final day a confirmed case remained aboard the ship.

Health authorities also identified five additional people in the country considered to have had potential exposure. Two had previously travelled aboard the MV Hondius but departed before the outbreak was initially detected. Three others are being monitored after possible exposure during a commercial flight involving a confirmed case.

Federal officials clarified that an earlier count released on May 8 included a sixth airline-related contact living in Québec. Following updated guidance from the World Health Organization and further assessment by provincial authorities, that individual is no longer considered a high-risk contact.

The Government of Canada has now introduced temporary travel measures designed to prevent further spread. Working alongside border agencies, airlines and public health officials, Ottawa says anyone who has been aboard the MV Hondius since April 1, 2026 will be prohibited from boarding flights destined for Canada until cleared under international public health guidance.

The Andes strain of hantavirus is considered particularly serious because, unlike most hantaviruses, limited person-to-person transmission has been documented in past outbreaks. Symptoms can initially resemble influenza, including fever, fatigue and muscle pain, before progressing in severe cases to respiratory complications.

Authorities emphasized that the current response remains precautionary and targeted. Public health agencies continue to work with international partners as the situation develops, while stressing that no widespread domestic transmission has been identified within the country.