Risks of a hantavirus infection
Current situation
The overall risk in Canada to the general population from the Andes hantavirus outbreak linked to the MV Hondius cruise ship remains low. Because transmission requires close, prolonged contact, person-to-person spread in Canada isn't expected, even if an infected individual were to arrive in the country.
Find out what the risks of getting infected with a hantavirus are and who is most at risk.
What are the risks of getting infected with a hantavirus?
The risk of getting infected with a hantavirus in Canada or in other parts of the world is low.
However, anyone who comes into contact with rodents carrying a hantavirus is at risk. Even healthy people can get infected and become seriously ill.
As of May 1, 2026, the National Microbiology Laboratory has confirmed 168 cases of hantavirus infection in Canada, since the start of active surveillance in 1994.
Rodent infestation in and around the home is still the main risk for exposure to a hantavirus. But infestations and possible exposures can happen wherever rodents are present. This includes:
- cottages
- trailers
- garden sheds
There are no vaccines available to prevent a hantavirus infection.
Canada works closely with its national and international partners. Together, they track diseases caused by hantaviruses in Canada and the U.S. We will continue to assess the risks of hantaviruses and associated diseases in North America on an ongoing basis.