Hantavirus Disease

Andes Virus Global Situation Update

"Last month, three New York residents who were passengers on the MV Hondius cruise ship arrived in Nebraska for screening and monitoring. One of those passengers has elected to remain in Nebraska to complete their 42-day monitoring period. The other two completed the first 21 days of their quarantine in Nebraska and have now returned to New York, where they will remain in quarantine with around-the-clock surveillance in private residences located outside of New York City until June 22. In compliance with relevant privacy laws, the Department will not be providing any additional information about their identity or location.

"It is important to emphasize that there is no immediate risk to the public. We will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates as they become available. Under protocols established to monitor their health and protect the community, a quarantine order is in place. Both passengers have agreed and are required to remain at their residences, have no contact with other people, and participate in daily monitoring activities conducted by local health officials. Plans are in place to transport them to appropriate medical facilities in the unlikely event they develop symptoms or need any other medical care.

"We want to thank all of the local, state and federal agencies and other partners that have supported the effort to bring these two New Yorkers home to complete their quarantine."

- New York State Health Commissioner Dr. James McDonald, June 1, 2026

Andes Virus Outbreak Guidance

Reviewed: May 2026

Hantavirus disease is caused by several different strains of hantaviruses. Hantaviruses are found in wild rodents, such as mice and rats, in different parts of the world. Hantaviruses found in North America can cause Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome, a severe lung disease which can be fatal. A milder form of the disease called Non-Pulmonary Hantavirus infection, can also occur. In the U.S., human hantavirus infections were first identified in the Southwest in 1993. Although most cases have occurred in states west of the Mississippi River, sporadic (single) cases have reported in several eastern states including New York.

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