WHO Monitors Suspected Hantavirus Outbreak After Three Deaths on Cruise Ship

GENEVA — The World Health Organization said Monday it is monitoring a suspected hantavirus outbreak aboard a cruise ship in the Atlantic Ocean after three people died and several others became ill.

The outbreak was reported aboard the MV Hondius, which was traveling from Argentina to Cape Verde with about 150 passengers. WHO said one case of hantavirus infection has been laboratory-confirmed and five additional cases are suspected.

“WHO is aware of and supporting a public health event involving a cruise vessel sailing in the Atlantic Ocean. To date, one case of hantavirus infection has been laboratory confirmed, and there are five additional suspected cases. Of the six affected individuals, three have died and one is currently in intensive care in South Africa,” WHO said in a post on X.

The agency said detailed investigations are underway, including additional laboratory testing and epidemiological reviews. Medical care and support are being provided to passengers and crew, and sequencing of the virus is also ongoing.

“Detailed investigations are ongoing, including further laboratory testing, and epidemiological investigations. Medical care and support are being provided to passengers and crew. Sequencing of the virus is also ongoing,” WHO said.

Hantavirus is typically transmitted to humans through contact with urine, droppings or saliva from infected rodents. It can cause severe respiratory illness and requires close medical monitoring and supportive care. In rare cases, some hantaviruses can spread from person to person.

The MV Hondius is a polar cruise ship operated by Oceanwide Expeditions. According to its published itinerary, the vessel left Ushuaia in southern Argentina on March 20 and was expected to end its voyage in Cape Verde on May 4. The 353-foot expedition vessel is designed to carry up to 170 passengers in 80 cabins, along with 57 crew members, 13 guides and one onboard doctor.

Among those affected is a 69-year-old British national who is in intensive care in Johannesburg, South Africa. Authorities said one case has been confirmed by laboratory testing, while five others remain under investigation.

WHO said it is coordinating with member states and the ship’s operators to arrange medical evacuation for two symptomatic passengers and conduct a full public health risk assessment for those still onboard.

“WHO is facilitating coordination between Member States and the Ship’s operators for medical evacuation of two symptomatic passengers, as well as full public health risk assessment and support to the remaining passengers on board. WHO is grateful for the rapid actions and coordination,” the organization said.

The agency said it has informed national focal points under the International Health Regulations and will issue a Disease Outbreak News report for public dissemination. (Source: IANS)