Hantavirus cruise ship outbreak

The risk remains low from hantavirus (Andes virus) in Alberta, and provincial and federal public health officials are monitoring the situation closely.

As of May 14, only two Albertans are considered higher risk and potentially exposed, and not everyone exposed to the virus acquires it. Person-to-person transmission of this type of hantavirus is uncommon and has only been documented following prolonged close contact.

More detailed information and resources:

• Rapid risk assessment: Hantavirus (Andes virus) outbreak on international cruise ship (Canada.ca)
• Alberta Precision Laboratories bulletin on testing for hantavirus