Revisiting Animal Reservoirs of Hantavirus and Other Zoonotic Viruses on Cruise Ships: Impact and Prevention

The sustained growth of international maritime tourism and the expansion of the cruise industry have increased the importance of emerging zoonotic diseases as a significant challenge to global public health. Cruise ships constitute complex epidemiological settings characterized by high population density, rapid international mobility, and constant interaction between humans, animals, and coastal environments, factors that favor the introduction and spread of emerging infectious agents. Among the main threats are hantaviruses and other zoonotic viruses, such as dengue, chikungunya, Zika, yellow fever, and avian influenza, which are associated with animal reservoirs and vectors present in ports, tourist destinations, and tropical ecosystems. This review examines the ecology of animal reservoirs of hantaviruses and other zoonotic pathogens relevant to maritime tourism, including peri-urban rodents, bats, migratory birds, and other mammals. It discusses the impact of climate change, coastal urbanization, and environmental change on viral transmission dynamics. Epidemiological risks linked to international cruises are highlighted, particularly exposure during ecotourism excursions, pathogen introduction, and challenges for maritime surveillance. The review also addresses travel medicine, biosecurity, and infection control, emphasizing a One Health approach. Strengthening integrated surveillance and prevention systems is essential to ensure safer, more sustainable, and resilient maritime tourism in the 21st century.