We were close, then ran out of money, says scientists on hantavirus vaccine

A cluster of hantavirus infections linked to the MV Hondius cruise ship sailing from Argentina toward Europe prompted a World Health Organization alert. More than eight people were infected on the ship, with passengers and staff from 23 countries potentially exposed. In Chile there have been about 39 cases in 2026, including 13 deaths, and in Argentina 42 infections diagnosed so far in 2026 through May 7. The source of the ship outbreak remains unknown, highlighting ongoing questions about Andes virus transmission. The article notes the long-standing need for vaccines or treatments, which were being developed in Chile before funding gaps paused progress.

After success in animal trials, the lab and Ichor Biologics sought international funding to begin human testing. Progress stalled during the Covid pandemic as resources shifted and local funding proved insufficient, preventing further progress.

In 2016, researchers observed that a tell-tale fluorescent green glow indicating the presence of the virus disappeared under a microscope, suggesting the antibodies neutralized the hantavirus.

Barría’s team in the immunovirology lab at Universidad de Concepción began work in 2014 using blood samples from hantavirus survivors to understand the immune response, and used a lab-safe pseudovirus in testing.