Three dead in suspected hantavirus outbreak on cruise ship

Three people have died and three others have fallen ill following a suspected hantavirus outbreak on a cruise ship owned by the Dutch company Oceanwide Expeditions, international media reports, as cited by Reuters.

The vessel involved is the MV Hondius, which was sailing near Cape Verde. The voyage began in Argentina approximately three weeks ago and included stops in Antarctica and other destinations. There were approximately 150 passengers on board.

The World Health Organization reports that one of the ill individuals has been admitted to an intensive care unit in South Africa. At least one case of hantavirus has been confirmed through laboratory testing, and the organization is already investigating the situation.

According to Dutch authorities, two of the deceased are Dutch citizens. Actions are currently being taken to evacuate the sick and repatriate the bodies.

Hantavirus is primarily transmitted through the inhalation of particles from the urine, feces, or saliva of infected rodents. In rare cases, human-to-human transmission is also possible. The illness begins with flu-like symptoms but can progress to severe respiratory failure and cardiac complications.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the mortality rate for severe forms can reach approximately 40%. There is no specific treatment; therapy is focused on supporting vital functions, including mechanical ventilation if necessary.

The WHO states that it is coordinating actions with the relevant countries and the ship’s operator, including the medical evacuation of those affected and a risk assessment for the remaining passengers.