Hantavirus has spread amongst passengers on a cruise ship docked in Tenerife. Three people have died and 20 Brits have arrived back in the UK where they are having to isolate in hospital for 72 hours and then a further 42 days at home in an attempt to prevent the spread of the deadly virus.

Hantavirus is a virus caught through rodents such as rats or mice. The virus is transmitted through their urine and droppings. The virus can be ingested by breathing air close to the infected droppings and urine but also passed through cuts, grazes and the eyes. Generally, the virus does not spread from human to human, but it is thought that this might have happened on the cruise ship due to confined spaces and very close contact.

Symptoms can include mild flu-like symptoms but also severe, deadly respiratory problems. Generally, patients can experience stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea and breathing difficulties. Symptoms appear 2-4 weeks after being in contact with the virus which can make containing it a challenge.

The 20 British nationals are safely being monitored at Arrowe Park Hospital in Merseyside where some have been provided with clothes and essentials as they were encouraged to leave their belongings on the ship as they evacuated.

1. Why are public health officials especially concerned about hantavirus outbreaks in rural areas?

2. Why is hantavirus difficult to diagnose in its early stages?

3. What environmental conditions can contribute to an increase in hantavirus cases?