French health authorities say the Andes virus detected in a passenger from the MV Hondius cruise ship matches strains already circulating in South America and shows no evidence of increased transmissibility or severity, according to the Pasteur Institute.
Andes Virus Sequenced in MV Hondius Passenger
The Pasteur Institute has fully sequenced the virus detected in a French passenger who traveled aboard the MV Hondius.
- Genomic analysis confirmed that the virus matches the Andes virus previously found in South America.
- The virus closely resembled samples circulating in rodents and other known cases in the region.
- Sequencing found the viral genomes in cruise passengers were identical to each other and about 97% similar to South American strains.
French Health Minister Stéphanie Rist emphasized that there is no indication the virus has developed new characteristics that would make it more dangerous or transmissible.
“At this stage, no element suggests the emergence of a form of the virus that could be more transmissible or more dangerous,” Rist said.
Cruise Ship Outbreak Details
The Andes virus outbreak aboard the MV Hondius has affected multiple travelers:
- 11 cases reported, 9 confirmed
- 3 deaths, including a Dutch couple believed to have been exposed in South America
- The French passenger, who tested positive, received treatment in Paris and was previously reported in serious condition
Pasteur’s Environment and Infectious Risk unit head Jean-Claude Manuguerra noted that minor variations observed in the virus are consistent with natural viral variation and are not expected to affect the virus’s behavior among travelers.
International Collaboration
Health authorities stressed the importance of sharing viral sequencing data with the international scientific community.
“This sequencing work allows us to better understand the virus and to ensure close health monitoring,” Rist said.
The sequencing efforts aim to help track viral strains, guide patient care, and monitor potential outbreaks linked to South American viruses.
