Hantavirus Outbreak on MV Hondius Cruise Ship Results in Three Deaths

A suspected outbreak of hantavirus aboard the MV Hondius cruise ship has resulted in three deaths and several illnesses among passengers and crew. The vessel, currently anchored off the coast of Cape Verde, departed from Ushuaia, Argentina, on April 1, 2026, with approximately 150 individuals on board.

The World Health Organization (WHO) has reported two confirmed cases and five suspected cases of the virus. The fatalities include a Dutch couple and a German national. One confirmed case involves a British crew member who is in critical condition and receiving intensive care in South Africa.

Hantavirus is typically transmitted through inhalation of aerosolized excretions from infected rodents. However, the Andes strain, prevalent in Argentina, is known for rare human-to-human transmission. Maria Van Kerkhove, an infectious disease epidemiologist at the WHO, stated, "We assume that the first affected individuals contracted the virus off the ship during excursions."

The MV Hondius has been denied docking permission in Cape Verde, leading to ongoing discussions about its next port of call. Spain has agreed to receive the ship in the Canary Islands, where passengers and crew will undergo medical evaluation and potential repatriation.

Health authorities are conducting thorough investigations to determine the source of the outbreak and to assess the risk of further transmission. Passengers and crew have been advised to remain in their cabins as a precautionary measure.