The World Health Organization (WHO) has reported that no new deaths linked to hantavirus have been recorded since May 2, while the total number of confirmed cases remains unchanged at 13.

WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus provided the latest update on cases associated with the Dutch-flagged passenger vessel MV Hondius, where several infections were previously identified.

According to Ghebreyesus, as of June 10, the total number of confirmed hantavirus cases stood at 13, including three fatalities.

He also noted that a confirmed case had been detected in a person on Tristan da Cunha, a British overseas territory, who was believed to have been exposed aboard the MV Hondius.

"As of June 10, the total number of cases remains 13, of which three have been fatal," Ghebreyesus said, adding that no additional deaths related to the virus have been reported since May 2.

The WHO had previously warned that additional cases linked to the vessel could emerge but stressed that the current situation does not indicate a wider outbreak risk.

The MV Hondius had departed from Argentina and later arrived at Tenerife in Spain's Canary Islands, where passengers were disembarked on May 10 following concerns over hantavirus infections among those on board.

Hantaviruses are primarily carried by rodents and are typically transmitted to humans through inhalation of airborne particles contaminated with rodent urine, droppings or saliva.

In less common cases, transmission can occur through rodent bites or scratches.

Health authorities continue to monitor the situation, while the WHO maintains that the risk of broader international spread remains low. (ILKHA)