The World Health Organization confirmed Thursday that five of eight suspected hantavirus cases linked to the MV Hondius cruise ship have tested positive for the rodent-borne virus. The confirmation came during a WHO press briefing where officials discussed the ongoing health response.

American passengers from the affected cruise have returned home and are being monitored for symptoms in three states, according to health officials. Some passengers who were potentially exposed to the virus had already traveled to multiple countries before the outbreak was identified, raising concerns about international tracking efforts.

A flight attendant was reportedly hospitalized after a passenger with confirmed hantavirus attempted to board a flight, though the connection between the two incidents remains under investigation. Health authorities are working to trace all potential contacts and monitor their conditions.

Despite the confirmed cases, WHO officials characterized the overall threat level as low during Thursday's briefing. The organization is coordinating with international health authorities to track passengers and implement appropriate monitoring protocols.

Passengers aboard the cruise ship reported that normal activities, including organized events, continued for most of the voyage. According to one French passenger, social distancing measures were only implemented during the final three days of the trip, with staff organizing social gatherings throughout much of the cruise period.

Hantavirus is transmitted through contact with infected rodent droppings, urine, or saliva, and can cause serious respiratory illness. Health officials continue to monitor all potentially exposed individuals while investigating the source of the outbreak aboard the vessel.