Cruise Ship Off Cape Verde Reports Suspected Hantavirus Outbreak with Three Fatalities
The MV Hondius, a Dutch cruise ship, is anchored off Cape Verde following a suspected hantavirus outbreak that has resulted in three deaths and several illnesses among passengers and crew.
The MV Hondius, a Dutch cruise ship carrying approximately 150 passengers and crew, is currently anchored off the coast of Cape Verde after a suspected hantavirus outbreak led to three fatalities and several illnesses. The vessel, operated by Oceanwide Expeditions, had embarked from Ushuaia, Argentina, in March, bound for various destinations including Antarctica and isolated South Atlantic islands.
The World Health Organization (WHO) has confirmed two cases of hantavirus and is investigating five additional suspected cases. Among the seven affected individuals, three have died, one is critically ill, and three exhibit mild symptoms. The deceased include a Dutch couple, aged 70 and 69, and a German national. A British passenger, who was evacuated to South Africa on April 27, remains in intensive care in Johannesburg.
Cape Verdean health authorities have denied the ship permission to dock due to public health concerns. The WHO is coordinating with local authorities and the cruise operator to assess the situation and facilitate medical evacuations as needed.
Hantavirus is typically transmitted to humans through contact with infected rodents or their excreta. While human-to-human transmission is rare, the WHO is conducting a full public health risk assessment to determine the source and potential spread of the virus in this instance.
The MV Hondius remains in open waters near Cape Verde as health officials continue their investigations and implement necessary measures to ensure the safety of all individuals on board and the general public.
