Three Dead in Suspected Hantavirus Outbreak on Atlantic Cruise Ship

A suspected hantavirus outbreak aboard the MV Hondius, a Dutch-flagged cruise ship sailing from Argentina to Cape Verde, has resulted in three deaths and several illnesses, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). One case has been laboratory-confirmed, with five additional suspected cases. Among the six affected individuals, three have died, and one is currently in intensive care in South Africa.

The first reported case involved a 70-year-old male passenger who developed symptoms including fever, headache, abdominal pain, and diarrhea. He died upon arrival at St. Helena Island, where his remains are awaiting repatriation to the Netherlands. His 69-year-old wife also fell ill and collapsed at O.R. Tambo International Airport in South Africa while attempting to return home. She was transported to a local health facility, where she later died. A third patient, a British national, became ill while the ship was en route from St. Helena to Ascension Island and was transferred to a private health facility in Sandton, South Africa. His laboratory test results confirmed hantavirus infection.

Hantavirus refers to a family of viruses carried by rodents, typically transmitted to humans through inhalation of particles from dried rodent droppings or urine. Initial symptoms resemble those of the flu, including fever, chills, body aches, and headaches. As the disease progresses, respiratory symptoms can develop, potentially leading to lung or heart failure.

The WHO is coordinating a multicountry response with all affected islands and countries to contain further spread of the disease. Detailed investigations are ongoing, including further laboratory testing and epidemiological studies. Medical care and support are being provided to passengers and crew, and sequencing of the virus is also underway.