Local experts discuss hantavirus and how it spreads after cruise outbreak

A deadly outbreak now making headlines as three cruise ship passengers are dead and at least four others are sick. All linked to a rare, but dangerous virus.

This evening, growing concerns about hantavirus and how it spreads.

WXXV News 25’s Everett Ganier Jr. went straight to local experts, finding out if this deadly virus could pose a risk here at home and what you need to know.

A virus most people have never heard of is now starting to make headlines.

Hantavirus is a rare disease linked to rodents has recently been reported in connection to a cruise ship outbreak, raising questions about how it spreads and who is at risk.

To get answers, we stopped by Alpha Care Urgent Care.

We also checked in with local pest control company Redd Pest Solutions, who say prevention starts with keeping rodents out of your home.

The risk of contracting hantavirus locally remains low, but awareness is key, especially when cleaning areas where rodents may have been.

For now, officials stress there is no cause for panic. Just a reminder to stay informed and practice basic safety measures.