Promising new Hantavirus vaccine

Scientists are racing to create a vaccine for the deadly hantavirus after an outbreak aboard the MV Hondius cruise ship reportedly killed three people. Currently, no approved vaccine or specific treatment exists for the disease, which can become fatal in severe cases.

Researchers at University of Bath have developed a new vaccine antigen targeting Hantaan disease, a virus within the hantavirus family. Early laboratory and animal testing produced strong immune responses, though extensive human clinical trials are still required before approval.

Professor Asel Sartbaeva explained that a successful vaccine could help prevent outbreaks or reduce the most dangerous effects of infection. At present, doctors mainly rely on early medical treatment to improve survival chances.

Many patients initially mistake hantavirus symptoms for flu or Covid-19 because the illness often begins with fever, fatigue, and muscle pain. As the disease worsens, patients may require oxygen support, mechanical ventilation, or dialysis due to lung or kidney failure.

The recent outbreak on the MV Hondius has raised international concern. Experts are still investigating whether passengers were infected onboard or exposed earlier during a birdwatching trip near a rubbish site before departure.

Some strains of hantavirus can develop into hantavirus pulmonary syndrome (HPS) or hemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome (HFRS), both of which may cause organ failure. However, not everyone infected becomes seriously ill, and some people show no symptoms.

Scientists are also testing a heat-resistant vaccine delivery method called ensilication, which protects vaccines from temperature changes. Researchers hope this technology could allow vaccines to be transported quickly, even by drone, during future outbreaks.