The hantavirus outbreak on the MV Hondius cruise ship, meant to travel from Argentina to Cape Verde, has become a growing concern among Canadians, as three Canadians are currently isolating after being potentially exposed to the virus.

Four other Canadians remain on board the ship in quarantine, with consular officials expected to meet with them on Friday.

Three people on board the cruise ship have died, with the World Health Organization (WHO) currently conducting an investigation.

The latest outbreak raises the question: how does hantavirus compare with other viruses that have posed major public health challenges?