Shares in US pharmaceutical company Moderna climbed nearly 6% at market open on Monday after it confirmed ongoing research into a hantavirus vaccine.
The spike followed renewed attention on a hantavirus outbreak linked to the cruise ship MV Hondius, which has raised public health concerns internationally.
Early-stage hantavirus vaccine research underway
According to the company, its hantavirus vaccine work began prior to the recent outbreak and remains in early-stage development.
A spokesperson said the hantavirus vaccine research forms part of broader efforts to prepare for emerging infectious diseases.
“Moderna has conducted preclinical research on hantaviruses in collaboration with the U.S. Army Medical Research Institute of Infectious Diseases,” the company said, referring to USAMRIID.
The firm also highlighted its wider mRNA Access Programme, which supports research into high-risk viruses in advance of potential outbreaks.
Cruise outbreak raises global concern
The World Health Organization reported a respiratory illness outbreak aboard the MV Hondius on 2 May, later identified as the Andes variant of hantavirus.
At least seven cases have been confirmed, with health officials reporting at least three deaths linked to the outbreak.
The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said the overall risk to the public remains extremely low.
Symptoms and risk profile
Hantavirus symptoms can appear between four and 42 days after exposure and include fever, fatigue and muscle pain. In severe cases, the virus can lead to respiratory complications.
Health authorities estimate that mortality rates for respiratory hantavirus cases can reach up to 38%, depending on the strain and treatment response.
Cruise ship passengers monitored
The MV Hondius has since docked near Tenerife, with most passengers and crew returning home.
US health officials confirmed that one passenger tested positive for the Andes virus and another showed mild symptoms. Medical evacuation procedures are underway for affected individuals.
Authorities continue to monitor the situation as investigations into the outbreak continue.
Also read: Multiple passengers of MV Hondius cruise ship test positive
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