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Hantavirus linked to international cruise ship (Level A1) — mouse about to jump on rock

Hantavirus linked to international cruise shipCEFR A1

14 May 2026

Adapted from Michael Gwarisa, SciDev CC BY 2.0

Photo by Porco Rosso, Unsplash

Level A1 – Beginner
2 min
84 words
  • There are hantavirus cases linked to an international cruise ship.
  • The ship had many passengers from different countries.
  • Some passengers later travelled through South Africa and beyond.
  • Health officials say the risk to the public is low.
  • A few people on the ship died from the illness.
  • The virus spreads mainly from rodents to people by contact.
  • Infected rodent urine and droppings can make dust dangerous.
  • Officials ask to seal holes and store food safely.
  • They also advise using protection when cleaning rodent areas.

Difficult words

  • hantavirusA virus that can make people very sick.
  • internationalRelating to more than one country.
  • passengerA person who travels on a vehicle.
    passengers
  • rodentA small mammal like a mouse or rat.
    rodents
  • infectTo give a disease to a person or animal.
    Infected
  • droppingAnimal poop or small solid waste.
    droppings

Tip: hover, focus or tap highlighted words in the article to see quick definitions while you read or listen.

Discussion questions

  • Have you ever been on a cruise ship?
  • Have you seen a mouse or rat near your home?
  • How do you keep food safe at home?

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