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Hantavirus poses very low risk to Jersey residents

May 10, 2026, 8:43 AM10
(Update: May 10, 2026, 8:43 AM)
British Crown dependency in the Channel Islands
country in north-west Europe

Hantavirus poses very low risk to Jersey residents

  • The hantavirus outbreak began on a cruise ship from Argentina.
  • Health officials in Jersey report no local cases and the risk is very low.
  • Public Health Jersey reassures that measures are in place to monitor the situation.
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In recent weeks, there has been concern regarding an outbreak of hantavirus that originated from a cruise ship departing from Argentina. This outbreak has resulted in a small number of deaths and hospitalizations, raising alarms among health officials. However, Public Health Jersey has stated that the risk of hantavirus to residents of Jersey is very low, and they are closely monitoring the situation in conjunction with UK colleagues. The World Health Organization has clarified that the hantavirus strain involved is not highly contagious when compared to other viruses, such as COVID-19 or influenza, and is believed to primarily spread from rodents. It is also suggested by health experts that this particular strain may have been transmitted between humans due to close contact rather than through widespread transmission. Importantly, Public Health Jersey has reported that they are not aware of any Jersey residents who have been affected by the hantavirus outbreak. For those concerned, they recommend checking the latest information from the UK Health Security Agency to stay informed about health precautions and guidelines. Overall, the situation is being monitored, and the public health authorities aim to assure the local population about their safety.

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