A cluster of confirmed and suspected hantavirus, Andes strain (ANDV) infections, including fatalities, has been identified among passengers of the MV Hondius cruise ship.
The current hypothesis is that some passengers may have been exposed to ANDV in Argentina (where the virus is endemic) prior to embarking, with potential subsequent transmission occurring onboard the vessel.
As of , 9 cases have been reported, including 7 laboratory-confirmed infections, and 3 deaths.
While the overall risk to the public in Ontario remains low, this is an evolving situation that we continue to monitor closely.
Key messages for healthcare providers
All known Ontario contacts linked to this cluster have been identified, are self-isolating, and are under active public health monitoring, with none located in Halton Region.
Clinicians should however remain vigilant and follow the provided guidance if an individual with a previously unrecognized exposure presents to a clinic or emergency department.
Assessment of patients
Should an individual infected with ANDV or was exposed to ANDV present to a clinic or emergency department, clinicians should assess for the presence of an epidemiological link, including:
Travel on an identified flight associated with a confirmed case
Direct contact with a confirmed or suspected case associated with this cluster of hantavirus cases
If no epidemiological link is identified, patients can be managed according to routine clinical practice.
Infection prevention and control (IPAC)
For patients with an epidemiological link and compatible symptoms, airborne, contact and droplet precautions should be implemented.
For more information, refer to the attached guidance from Public Health Ontario – “Infection Prevention and Control Precautions for Hantavirus, Andes Strain”.
Testing and patient transfer
Prior to initiating any testing or arranging patient transfer, health care providers are asked to:
Immediately contact the Ministry of Health (MOH), Health System Emergency Management Branch (HSEMB) via the 24/7 Health Care Provider Hotline (1-866-212-2272, ext. 1).
Hospitals and health care providers are asked not to independently arrange testing or transport without prior consultation.
Next steps
This communication is being shared out of an abundance of caution. At present, all known Ontario contacts have been accounted for, and the risk to the public remains low.
Further updates will be provided as the situation evolves.
