Given the alarm that has arisen due to the outbreak of hantavirus among passengers of the MV Hondius cruise ship, concern has spread to the countries of origin of those involved, while even pet owners have wondered about the possible transmission of hantavirus by domestic animals.

Experts confirm that, although cats and dogs can become infected, they do not show symptoms and do not transmit the virus to humans. “They may be exposed, but they don't get sick the way we know people get sick,” Dr. Kate Elden, medical director at veterinary telemedicine company Dutch, told ABC News.

However, a very important point is to avoid the introduction of infected rodents by pets. “Don't hesitate to call your veterinarian if your pet has brought a rodent home and starts to look unwell,” warns Elden.

Key information about hantavirus

Contagion mainly occurs through inhalation of contaminated particles in areas infested with rodents.

The initial symptoms are similar to those of the flu and can progress rapidly, severely affecting the lungs.

Tips for pet owners

As there is no approved veterinary vaccine against hantavirus for pets, prevention is based on avoiding contact with rodents, their urine, feces and nests, and keeping spaces where mice or rats can enter clean.

To care for your pets and reduce risks:

Preventive measures

Experts suggest sealing holes in the home, cleaning rodent droppings with disinfectants, and keeping pet food well stored to reduce the risk of hantavirus infection.

According to the American Veterinary Medical Association, the virus lives in their bodies without making them sick and is transmitted through urine, feces and saliva. But the risk depends a lot on where you live.

“The domestic hamster, the guinea pig, the gerbil, these are captive-bred animals, and we have no documentation to show that they play a role in hantavirus cases or are part of the spread of the disease,” Elden said.

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