WHO Investigates Possible Human-to-Human Hantavirus Transmission on Cruise Ship

The World Health Organization (WHO) is investigating a suspected hantavirus outbreak aboard the MV Hondius, a Dutch-flagged cruise ship currently off the coast of Cape Verde. As of May 4, 2026, seven cases have been identified among the 147 passengers and crew, including three fatalities.

The cases involve a Dutch couple and a German national who have died, and a British national who was evacuated to South Africa and is in intensive care.

Hantaviruses are typically transmitted to humans through contact with infected rodents or their excreta. However, the WHO has not ruled out the possibility of human-to-human transmission in this instance. Dr. Maria Van Kerkhove, WHO's Director for Epidemic and Pandemic Preparedness and Prevention, stated, "We do know that some of the cases had very close contact with each other and certainly human-to-human transmission can't be ruled out so as a precaution this is what we are assuming."

The MV Hondius had departed from Argentina on April 1, 2026, for a polar expedition, visiting several remote islands before anchoring near Cape Verde. Passengers are currently isolating in their cabins, and medical teams have boarded the ship to assess the situation.

The Spanish government has agreed to allow the ship to dock in the Canary Islands for a comprehensive investigation and disinfection. Upon arrival, passengers and crew will undergo medical screenings before repatriation to their respective countries.

The WHO is collaborating with local authorities and the ship's operator to conduct a full public health risk assessment, including laboratory testing and epidemiological investigations. While the risk to the general public is currently deemed low, the situation is being closely monitored.