Hantavirus (including Andes virus)
Hantaviruses cause a rare viral disease and are spread to humans through contact with infected rodents and their urine, droppings or saliva.
Some hantaviruses can cause severe illness affecting the lungs or kidneys and require urgent medical attention.
Hantavirus infections occur in parts of Asia, Europe, North and South America. The risk to Territorians is primarily associated with overseas travel or occupational exposure while working in countries where the virus is present.
People should take precautions to avoid contact with rodents and rodent-contaminated environments when travelling overseas.
Current situation
Recently, there has been an outbreak of Andes virus (a type of hantavirus) infection on a cruise ship.
Public health authorities are responding to the situation. The risk to Australia is currently low.
Notifiable disease
Andes virus is temporarily listed as a nationally notifiable disease until 21 November 2026. If you suspect a patient with Hantavirus, contact the Northern Territory's Centre for Disease Control.
Information for health professionals
| Type | Resource | Author |
|---|---|---|
| Webpage | Andes virus infection | Australian Centre for Disease Control |
| Webpage | About Andes virus | Centers for Disease Control and Prevention |
Information for the public
| Type | Resource | Author |
|---|---|---|
| Webpage | Hantavirus — what you need to know | healthdirect |
Contact
Contact the Northern Territory’s Centre for Disease Control.
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