NAIROBI, Kenya- A suspected hantavirus outbreak aboard the MV Hondius cruise ship in the Atlantic Ocean has killed three people and left several others seriously ill, according to the World Health Organization (WHO), which is now leading an international investigation.
The ship was travelling from Argentina to Cape Verde when passengers began developing severe respiratory illness, triggering emergency medical response efforts and evacuations.
At least one case has been laboratory-confirmed, while several others remain under investigation.
So, what is hantavirus?
Hantavirus refers to a strain of viruses carried by rodents, primarily transmitted to humans through inhalation of airborne particles from dried rodent droppings.
Infections typically occur when the virus becomes airborne from a rodent’s urine, droppings, or saliva, according to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
Though rare, it can also spread through rodent bites or scratches.
The virus can cause two severe illnesses. The first, Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome (HPS), often starts with fatigue, fever, and muscle aches, followed by headaches, dizziness, chills, and abdominal issues. If respiratory symptoms develop, the mortality rate is approximately 38%, according to the CDC.
The second illness, Haemorrhagic Fever with Renal syndrome (HFRS), is more severe and primarily affects the kidneys. Later symptoms can include low blood pressure, internal bleeding, and acute kidney failure.
How does it infect humans?
People typically get infected through:
- Breathing in contaminated dust in enclosed or poorly ventilated spaces
- Cleaning areas infested with rodents
- Direct contact with rodent waste or saliva
- Rarely, rodent bites
In cruise ship or building environments, poor ventilation can increase risk if rodent contamination is present.
What diseases does hantavirus cause?
Hantavirus can lead to two major and serious illnesses:
1. Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome (HPS)
- Affects the lungs
- Causes severe breathing difficulty
- Can progress rapidly to respiratory failure
2. Hemorrhagic Fever with Renal Syndrome (HFRS)
- Affects kidneys
- Can cause internal bleeding and organ failure
Symptoms to watch for
Early symptoms often resemble flu, including:
- Fever and chills
- Muscle pain
- Headaches
- Fatigue
- Nausea
In severe cases, symptoms quickly escalate into:
- Shortness of breath
- Fluid in lungs
- Shock or organ failure
How dangerous is it?
Hantavirus is rare but highly dangerous once infection becomes severe.
Health data shows mortality can reach up to 35–40% in severe respiratory cases if not treated early in hospital care.
There is no specific cure or vaccine, and treatment mainly involves intensive supportive care such as oxygen therapy or ventilation.
