Greece Confirms Hantavirus Case; Five Suspected Cases Under Investigation

Sunday, 10 May 2026/Source: CretaOne/1 min read

A case of hantavirus has been laboratory-confirmed in Greece, with five additional suspected cases under investigation. The disease has returned to public attention following a tragedy aboard the cruise ship MV Hondius, where three people died from hantavirus infection. Hantavirus is transmitted primarily through contact with infected rodents or their droppings, urine, and saliva, not through person-to-person contact. Symptoms include fever, fatigue, and muscle aches, which can progress to respiratory complications. For tourists visiting Crete, the risk remains low with basic precautions: avoid contact with rodents, do not handle dead animals, keep food stored securely, and wash hands frequently. If you experience flu-like symptoms after potential rodent exposure during your stay, seek medical attention promptly and inform the doctor of possible contact.