A hantavirus outbreak has captured global attention in recent days, leading many to wonder if they can contract the infection themselves — particularly in big cities such as New York City.
The virus — which has been connected to a voyage cruise ship — is typically spread by rodents and can lead to death.
Here’s what to know on its contagion risk, and why it’s now being monitored in the U.S.
What is hantavirus?
Hantaviruses are a group of viruses carried by rodents that only spread to humans on occasion. Individuals are usually infected by rodents and their droppings, urine or saliva, according to the World Health Organization…