Hantavirus risk in Armenia remains low, authorities say

Armenia’s health authorities say the risk of hantavirus spreading within the country remains low, despite recent reports of cases linked to a cruise ship in the Canary Islands.

The National Centre for Disease Control and Prevention confirmed that it is closely monitoring the international situation. Officials stressed that the World Health Organization (WHO) has not recommended any travel or trade restrictions at this stage.

On 10 May, the MV Hondius cruise ship docked at Granadilla port in Tenerife, where passengers were disembarked and repatriated to their home countries.

By 12 May, a total of 11 cases had been recorded among passengers and their close contacts:

• 9 confirmed
• 2 probable

Repatriated travellers underwent medical examinations, laboratory testing, and were transferred to isolation facilities to complete a quarantine period under medical supervision. Contact tracing and monitoring efforts are ongoing.