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A suspected outbreak of hantavirus aboard a cruise ship in the Atlantic Ocean has resulted in three fatalities, according to information shared by the World Health Organization (WHO) with the BBC. To date, one confirmed hantavirus case has been identified, while five additional cases remain under investigation. Among those affected is a 69-year-old British citizen currently receiving intensive care in Johannesburg, South Africa.
The incident took place on the MV Hondius, a polar cruise vessel operated by Oceanwide Expeditions, which was en route from Argentina to Cape Verde. Departing Ushuaia, Argentina on 20 March, the ship was scheduled to complete its journey on 4 May in Cape Verde. The vessel measures 107.6 meters in length and accommodates up to 170 passengers in 80 cabins, alongside a crew of 57, thirteen guides, and one onboard doctor.
Hantavirus infections typically arise from exposure to rodent urine or feces, although human-to-human transmission has been documented in rare instances, often causing severe respiratory complications. South African health ministry spokesperson Foster Mohale confirmed to the BBC that at least two people had died in connection with the outbreak. The first individual to display symptoms was a 70-year-old passenger who passed away while still on board; his remains are currently on Saint Helena, a British territory located in the South Atlantic. His 69-year-old wife, also a passenger, fell ill during the voyage, was evacuated to Johannesburg, and subsequently died in hospital.
The deceased couple were reportedly Dutch nationals, according to a source who spoke anonymously to the AFP news agency. The identity of a third fatality, believed to still be on the ship, was not disclosed. Authorities are deliberating on whether to hospitalize and isolate two other passengers showing symptoms in Cape Verde before the cruise ship continues its journey toward the Canary Islands. Meanwhile, the WHO is facilitating coordination between the ship’s operators and relevant member states to support medical evacuations, conduct a thorough public health risk evaluation, and assist those remaining on board. The UK Foreign Office is closely monitoring developments and stands ready to provide assistance to British nationals affected by the outbreak
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