In light of recent news, it was reported to the World Health Organisation that a number of passengers on a cruise ship voyaging from Ushuaia, Argentina on 1st April 2026 were suspected to have contracted Hantavirus. As of 4th May, a total of seven (two confirmed and five suspected) cases, including three deaths, have been reported.

Hantavirus is a serious respiratory disease caused by a family of viruses carried primarily by wild rodents, including deer mice, white-footed mice, rice rats, and cotton rats. It is classified as an enveloped virus, therefore highly susceptible to chlorine-based disinfectants, including Prosan+ Detergent Chlorine Tablets.

Effective Decontamination with Prosan Detergent Chlorine Tablets

Our tablets are tested against the ‘Enveloped Virus’ category (BS EN 14476 and 16777), meaning they are a suitable disinfectant to use in viral inactivation. To sanitise non-porous hard surfaces following a suspected outbreak, it is recommended to:

1. Prepare: Dissolve 2 tablets in 1 Litre of potable water to achieve a concentration of 2,000 parts per million available chlorine.
2. Apply: The contaminated area should be saturated with the chlorine solution through suitable means (via trigger spray or saturated cloth).
3. Contact: Leave the surface wet for a minimum of 5 minutes to ensure total inactivation.

In line with best practice for surface disinfection, safety protocols must be ensured, such as:

1. Professional Intervention: If a rodent infestation is suspected, we strongly recommend engaging professional Pest Control services.
2. PPE Requirements: Never attempt to clean rodent waste without appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE). At a minimum, HEPA-filter masks, gloves, and eye protection must be worn.
3. Methodology: Avoid dry-cleaning methods (sweeping/vacuuming) that loft particles into the air. Always use wet-cleaning techniques with disinfectant.

For further epidemiology and outbreak guidance, please visit the UK Government portal: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/andes-hantavirus-epidemiology-outbreaks-and-guidance

Disclaimer: The above information is offered as a guide only and the operator should satisfy themselves as to the effectiveness of the above guidelines and the suitability for their application. The information is believed to be correct but does not purport to be all inclusive and shall be used only as a guide – no warranty or indemnity is implied.