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Cruise Ship Hantavirus Outbreak Prompts U.S. Health System Review

A hantavirus outbreak aboard a cruise ship has infected 11 people across multiple countries, killing three as of Tuesday, and is prompting questions about pandemic preparedness in the United States. The World Health Organization verified nine cases, with no positive cases among Americans as of Wednesday. Eighteen individuals are under observation in U.S. medical facilities, while additional passengers are being monitored across several states. The Andes strain of hantavirus does not transmit easily between people, limiting pandemic risk compared to Covid-19 or influenza. Health officials expect additional cases in coming weeks due to the virus's extended incubation period but anticipate infections will remain confined to exposed passengers now that containment protocols are active. Moderna shares jumped 12% Friday after announcing early-stage vaccine research.