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Written question asked by Edward Argar (Conservative) on Wednesday, 13 May 2026, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Monday, 18 May 2026 (named day). A holding answer was provided on Tuesday, 19 May 2026. A substantive answer was provided by Sharon Hodgson (Labour) on Wednesday, 27 May 2026 on behalf of the Department of Health and Social Care.

Hantavirus: Mortality Rates

Question

To ask the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, what estimate he has made of the average mortality rate of each strain of hantavirus.

Answer

The mortality rate of hantaviruses varies considerably depending on the strain and the quality of care available. For the Andes hantavirus, it has been estimated at up to 30 to 50%, however the upper end of that estimate is from data published around 30 years ago and has since declined. With prompt hospital treatment and respiratory support, outcomes may be significantly better.

The United Kingdom’s response to this complex incident is being led by the UK Health Security Agency working closely with the World Health Organization, the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office, the Department of Health and Social Care, the Home Office, the Ministry for Housing, Communities and Local Government, the Ministry of Defence, the UK Devolved Governments and international partners. Collectively, they are doing everything possible to protect the safety and well-being of British nationals, and to provide reassurance to UK citizens.

Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
254
Session
2026-27
Subjects
Mortality rates Hantavirus
Contains statistics
Yes
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk