Recent Ebola and hantavirus outbreaks are highlighting major gaps in scientific understanding of emerging virus strains. Health officials report that the hantavirus linked to infections aboard the MV Hondius cruise ship appears to be spreading person-to-person, an unusual pattern for hantaviruses, which are typically transmitted through contact with infected rodents. At the same time, the Ebola outbreak in Africa involves a rare virus strain that may not respond well to existing vaccines and treatments developed for more familiar Ebola species. Scientists say the outbreaks underscore how little is known about the vast diversity of viruses circulating globally and emphasize the importance of accurately distinguishing between related but biologically different pathogens when developing public health responses, treatments, and containment strategies. Read the full story at the New York Times
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