health
This is the long-tailed mouse, species transmitting the Andes strain of hantavirus
There is great consternation over the WHO's investigation into the possibility that a strange transmission of hantavirus may have spread among passengers on the ship MV Hondius.
TL;DR
- The WHO is investigating a possible hantavirus transmission on the MV Hondius.
- The Andes strain of hantavirus is transmitted by the long-tailed mouse (Oligoryzomys longicaudatus).
- This rodent lives in Chile and southern Argentina and plays ecological roles.
- It is estimated that 5-10% of adult male long-tailed mice carry the strain.
- Long-tailed mice do not get sick from the disease but their lifespan may be reduced.
- Human symptoms of hantavirus include fatigue, fever, muscle aches, headaches, and gastrointestinal problems.