Risks of a hantavirus infection
Current situation
The Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC) confirmed on May 17 one case of Andes hantavirus in Canada through laboratory testing. This case was reported by the British Columbia Provincial Health Officer on May 16 and was among the passengers on the MV Hondius cruise ship. The individual, as well as other potential contacts in Canada continue to follow public health protocols and be monitored by local public health authorities.
The overall risk to the general population in Canada remains low at this time.
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.