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What is hantavirus and how does it spread?

Three people have died and three others are ill ⁠after a Netherlands-based cruise ship in the Atlantic was hit by a suspected outbreak of hantavirus. The virus is transmitted to humans through infected wild rodents, such as mice or rats, which shed the virus in their saliva, urine and droppings. In rare cases, it can also spread from human to human. FRANCE 24's Environment Editor Valerie Dekimpe tells us more.

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'We represent a new force': Nearly 60 nations push ahead with fossil fuel exit

Some 60 countries are gathering in the coastal city of Santa Marta in Colombia to tackle an issue that has deadlocked UN climate talks: how to exist fossil fuels. It's the first global conference of its kind, bringing together nations that want to accelerate a fossil fuel phaseout, despite a decades-long stalemate at the UN-level COP summits. Our Environment Editor Valerie Dekimpe tells us more. 

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Amsterdam becomes world's first capital to ban fossil fuel ads

Cities around the globe are clearing their billboards of adverts for flights, cruise ships and petrol cars in a bid to reduce global warming. Amsterdam is the latest city to join the movement, becoming the first capital in the world to approve a legal ban on fossil fuel advertisements. Following the historic win, Dutch activists are now calling for restrictions to be enforced on a national level. FRANCE 24's Valérie Dekimpe and Alexandra Renard report.

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Scientists, authorities divided over fate of stranded whale in Baltic Sea

Timmy, a humpback whale, first became stuck off Germany's Baltic coast in late March. The animal’s plight has since gripped the public and raised questions about whether humans should intervene to save wild animals. While a rescue mission funded by two German millionaires is underway, marine biologists warn the whale has no chance of survival and are urging the public to reflect on humanity's role in the degradation of marine habitats. FRANCE 24's Environment Editor Valerie Dekimpe takes a closer look.

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