Image Credit: Hans Lucas/AFP via Getty Images The world flew into panic mode after three cruise ship passengers died from a suspected hantavirus outbreak earlier this month. The rare illness, which is connected to contact with rodents, is now a topic of concern, especially among travelers this season. How does one even contract the disease in the first place? Is there a cure or solid treatment for anyone who does catch it? Learn about the hantavirus and why it's now a relevant topic now. What Is the Hantivirus? Hantavirus is a rare and potentially life-threatening virus.