New Delhi, May 8 -- This weekend, all eyes look towards the sea as M/V Hondius is on track to dock in the Canary Islands, a Spanish archipelago. Globally, the ship is making headlines because some passengers on board tested positive for Hantavirus - a rare, severe rodent-borne disease - that has already so far resulted in three deaths and multiple illnesses. All 146 people, from 23 countries, on board the M/V Hondius will be medically assessed before being able to travel home.

What is hantavirus?

Hantavirus is a rare but potentially deadly group of viruses primarily spread through contact with infected rodents, especially their urine, saliva or droppings. The infection can cause severe respiratory illness and, in rare cases, may spread ...