ALBAWABA - The World Health Organization announced Tuesday that Spain would "welcome" a cruise ship with suspected hantavirus cases onboard.
The cruise ship, which is anchored off Cape Verde, reported three deaths of the virus, two extra cases and five alleged infections, the WHO said.
The organization said that Spain could enable an investigation and assessment of the risk to the remaining passengers.
However, Spain announced Tuesday that it made 'no decision' yet to accept the hantavirus cruise ship.
"Based on the epidemiological data collected from the ship during its stopover in Cape Verde, it will be decided which port of call is most appropriate. Until then, the Ministry of Health will not take any decision, as we have informed the World Health Organization," Spain's health ministry said in a statement online.
Hantavirus. (Shutterstock)
What is the Hantavirus disease?
According to the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC), Hantavirus is a respiratory virus transmitted to humans through contact with rodent droppings and saliva, either by inhalation or direct contact.
The IFRC notes that transmission through direct contact with infected individuals is very rare.
Symptoms of Hantavirus include fever, fatigue, chills, and muscle aches as primary symptoms, in addition to headache, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and sometimes diarrhea. Coughing and shortness of breath may appear in later stages.
The IFRC recommends rodent control measures as a key way to reduce the spread of Hantavirus.
Hantavirus symptoms:
Hantavirus. (Shutterstock)
