Summary
- 3 dead, several ill in suspected hantavirus outbreak aboard MV Hondius
- World Health Organization confirms investigation and medical evacuations
- Patients receiving treatment in South Africa as response intensifies
NAIROBI, Kenya- A suspected outbreak of the rare and potentially deadly hantavirus on a cruise ship in the Atlantic Ocean has left three people dead and several others ill, prompting an urgent investigation by the World Health Organization.
The cases were reported aboard the MV Hondius, which was sailing between Argentina and Cape Verde.
How the deadly outbreak unfolded at sea
Health authorities confirmed that at least one case of hantavirus has been verified, with more suspected.
Two of the victims were a Dutch couple aged 70 and 69.
According to officials in South Africa, the husband fell ill onboard and died on Saint Helena, while his wife later died in a hospital in Kempton Park.
A British passenger is currently receiving treatment in Johannesburg after testing positive for the virus.
At least one patient remains in intensive care, while efforts are underway to evacuate others from the vessel.
WHO races to contain spread as evacuations planned
The WHO said investigations are ongoing, including laboratory testing and virus sequencing.
The agency is working with national authorities and the ship’s operator, Oceanwide Expeditions, to coordinate medical evacuations.
However, evacuation efforts have been complicated by restrictions on disembarkation imposed by authorities in Cape Verde.
Dutch officials have stepped in to organise the repatriation of affected passengers and the deceased.
Meanwhile, the UK Foreign Office said it is monitoring the situation and is ready to assist its citizens.
What hantavirus is and why the outbreak is alarming
Hantavirus is typically transmitted through contact with infected rodent urine or faeces.
It can cause severe illnesses, including lung and kidney complications, and in rare cases may spread between humans.
There is no specific cure, though early treatment improves survival chances.
The outbreak on a confined cruise vessel has raised concerns about containment, given the close contact among passengers and crew.
The MV Hondius, which carries around 170 passengers and 70 crew members, remains under close monitoring as health authorities work to prevent further spread.
