Cruise Ship Denied Docking Amid Suspected Hantavirus Outbreak

A cruise ship off the coast of Cape Verde has been denied permission to dock following a suspected outbreak of hantavirus that has resulted in three deaths and several illnesses among passengers and crew. The MV Hondius, operated by Oceanwide Expeditions, is currently carrying 149 individuals from 23 countries, including 17 Americans.

The World Health Organization (WHO) confirmed one laboratory-confirmed case of hantavirus and five additional suspected cases. Among the deceased are a Dutch couple; the 70-year-old man died on board on April 11, and his 69-year-old wife passed away in Johannesburg while attempting to return to the Netherlands. A third victim, a German national, also died, though the official cause of death is pending confirmation.

Cape Verdean authorities have refused the ship's request to dock at the port of Praia as a precautionary measure to protect public health. The cruise operator is considering alternative ports, such as Las Palmas or Tenerife in the Canary Islands, for disembarkation and further medical assistance.

Two crew members, one British and one Dutch, are reportedly ill and require urgent medical care. The WHO is assisting in planning their medical evacuation, and an air ambulance is being prepared if needed.

Hantavirus is primarily transmitted through contact with infected rodents' urine or feces and can lead to severe respiratory illness. The WHO has stated that the risk to the wider public remains low and there is no need for panic or travel restrictions.

The U.S. State Department is closely monitoring the situation and stands ready to provide consular assistance to American citizens on board.

The MV Hondius departed Argentina for the Canary Islands approximately three weeks ago, with stops including Antarctica and the Falkland Islands. The origin of the outbreak is under investigation, with authorities considering both onboard and onshore sources.