Santa Clara Co. resident was aboard cruise ship affected by Andes hantavirus outbreak: officials

May 10, 2026 - 15:08

A resident of Santa Clara County was aboard a cruise ship that has been linked to an outbreak of Andes hantavirus, according to local health officials. The individual is one of two Californians who were on the vessel during the time of the exposure.

The Santa Clara County Public Health Department is currently monitoring the resident's condition in close coordination with the California Department of Public Health and the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Officials have not released the person's name or current health status, citing privacy concerns.

Andes hantavirus is a rare but severe illness that can cause hantavirus pulmonary syndrome. Unlike other hantaviruses found in North America, the Andes strain is known to spread from person to person, though the primary risk remains contact with infected rodent droppings, urine, or saliva.

Health authorities are conducting a thorough evaluation to determine the resident's risk level and to prevent any potential secondary spread. The outbreak on the cruise ship has drawn attention from international health agencies, as the virus poses a serious threat in confined environments. The Santa Clara County resident remains under close observation as the investigation continues.