The Department of Health assured the public that there are currently no confirmed cases of Hantaviruses in the Philippines despite reported cases of Andes virus among passengers aboard the MV Hondius cruise ship.

According to the World Health Organization, several cases of Andes virus — a type of Hantavirus carried by rodents such as rats — were recorded among passengers of the MV Hondius, which sailed from Argentina to islands in the South Atlantic as of May 7, 2026.

The DOH also confirmed that all 38 Filipino crew members aboard the vessel are safe.

Health authorities emphasized that the country’s borders continue to be closely monitored through the measures implemented by the Bureau of Quarantine to help prevent the possible entry of infectious diseases.

The WHO earlier stated that the global risk posed by Hantaviruses remains low.

The DOH likewise encouraged the public to stay informed and continue following health advisories regarding disease prevention and safety.