Cruise Ship Passenger Tests Positive for Hantavirus

A Canadian passenger from a cruise ship tested positive for hantavirus on May 15, 2026. The person traveled on the Pacific Explorer cruise last month. Health officials confirmed the case after the passenger returned home to Vancouver.

Hantavirus is a serious illness spread by infected rodents. The cruise ship had reported rodent problems during its voyage. The ship traveled to Alaska and stopped at several ports over two weeks.

The Canadian health authority investigated the cruise ship immediately. They found droppings and signs of rodents in the ship's storage areas. The company cleaned all affected areas and brought in pest control experts.

Other passengers from the same cruise are now being monitored. Health officials contacted 2,847 people who traveled on the Pacific Explorer. Most passengers showed no symptoms, but doctors asked them to watch for warning signs.

Hantavirus symptoms include fever, muscle aches, and difficulty breathing. These symptoms usually appear between one and four weeks after infection. The infected passenger is now recovering at home with medical support.

The cruise company apologized to all passengers. They promised to improve cleaning and pest control on all their ships. The Pacific Explorer will not sail again until inspectors approve it as safe.

Cruise ship officials said this was an unusual situation. They stated that cruise ships normally have strict hygiene standards. The company offered refunds to passengers who wanted to cancel future bookings.