Premium

People in hazmat suits escorting an individual believed to be infected with hantavirus into a medical vehicle in Spain's Canary Islands on May 6, 2026. (Lina Selg - AFP / Getty Images)

Fact Check: Is Hantavirus Poised to Become a COVID-Style Pandemic?

By Randy DeSoto May 10, 2026 at 8:00am

Health experts are seeking to reassure people that a hantavirus outbreak on a cruise ship off the coast of Africa is not the beginning of the next COVID-19 pandemic.

The biggest distinction is the virus, though it has proved deadly for three passengers on the Dutch-flagged ship MV Hondius and sickened at least five more, even in those close quarters, most of the approximately 140 on board were not infected, The New York Times reported on Friday.

“I have Covid P.T.S.D.,” Dr. Celine R. Gounder, editor at large for public health at KFF Health News and an infectious disease expert, told the Times.

Read the Rest — Subscribe Now

You've reached the end of the free preview.
Join thousands who rely on us for trusted news.

Already a subscriber? Sign in

Choose The Western Journal as your preferred source on Google and never miss reporting that defends truth, protects freedom, and advances Western civilization

Advertise with The Western Journal and reach millions of highly engaged readers, while supporting our work. Advertise Today.

Submit a Correction →

We are committed to truth and accuracy in all of our journalism. Read our editorial standards.

Randy DeSoto

Contributing Journalist

SummaryMore Biographical InformationRecent PostsContact

Randy DeSoto has written more than 4,000 articles for The Western Journal since he began with the company in 2015. He is a graduate of West Point and Regent University School of Law. He is the author of the book "We Hold These Truths" and screenwriter of the political documentary "I Want Your Money."

@RandyDeSoto

Randy DeSoto wrote and was the assistant producer of the documentary film "I Want Your Money" about the perils of Big Government, comparing the presidencies of Ronald Reagan and Barack Obama. Randy is the author of the book "We Hold These Truths," which addresses how leaders have appealed to beliefs found in the Declaration of Independence at defining moments in our nation's history. He has been published in several political sites and newspapers.

Randy graduated from the United States Military Academy at West Point with a BS in political science and Regent University School of Law with a juris doctorate.

Birthplace

Harrisburg, Pennsylvania

Nationality

American

Honors/Awards

Graduated dean's list from West Point

Education

United States Military Academy at West Point, Regent University School of Law

Books Written

We Hold These Truths

Professional Memberships

Virginia and Pennsylvania state bars