• WHO declares the hantavirus outbreak linked to MV Hondius is over after quarantines completed.
• Thirteen people were infected, with three fatalities reported.
• More than 650 contacts were monitored in 33 countries following the outbreak.
• The Andes strain of hantavirus was involved, known for its ability to transmit among humans.

The World Health Organization (WHO) has officially declared an end to the hantavirus outbreak linked to the cruise ship MV Hondius following the completion of quarantine for the last exposed individual. Director-General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus announced that no further cases have been reported since May 25, emphasizing that "the outbreak of hantavirus is over," as the final contact tested negative and returned home, according to Channel News Asia, SCMP, and BBC.

The outbreak, which began with twelve confirmed cases and one probable case, resulted in three deaths, predominantly involving the Andes strain of hantavirus. This strain has the unique capability of human-to-human transmission. The cruise ship, which departed from Ushuaia, Argentina on April 1, had previously traveled through areas where the rodent species harboring the virus was present, raising significant health concerns, reports Channel News Asia, SCMP, and BBC.

Over 650 contacts were tracked and reported by health authorities across 33 countries following the outbreak. WHO aims to enhance understanding of both hantavirus and its outbreaks, coordinating studies involving countries to refine diagnostics, therapeutics, and potential vaccines. "Andes virus and other hantaviruses are still a public health risk for South America and other endemic areas," precautionary measures are urged for future outbreaks, according to SCMP and BBC.