The World Health Organisation and South Africa's health department reported on Sunday that a suspected outbreak of the rare hantavirus infection on a cruise ship in the Atlantic Ocean has resulted in three deaths, including an elderly married couple, and at least three others falling ill.
Investigation Underway
The WHO confirmed that an investigation is underway, with at least one case of hantavirus confirmed. One patient is in intensive care in a South African hospital, and the WHO is working with authorities to evacuate two other symptomatic individuals from the ship.
Details of the Outbreak
The outbreak occurred on the MV Hondius, traveling between Argentina and Cape Verde. Ship-tracking sites show the vessel was off the port of Praia, Cape Verde's capital, on Sunday night. The deceased include a Dutch couple aged 70 and 69. The man died on Saint Helena, and his wife died in a South African hospital. A 69-year-old British man tested positive for hantavirus and is in a private health facility in Johannesburg.
Understanding Hantavirus
Hantavirus is typically transmitted through contact with infected rodent urine or feces. It can cause hantavirus pulmonary syndrome, affecting the lungs, or hemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome, affecting the kidneys. While rare, human-to-human transmission is possible. There is no specific treatment, but early medical care improves survival chances.
Response and Coordination
The WHO is supporting the public health event, conducting investigations, and coordinating medical care. The ship's operator, Oceanwide Expeditions, stated that two crew members need urgent care, and a third fatality remains onboard. Local authorities have not authorized disembarkation for medical care. Dutch authorities are leading repatriation efforts for the two symptomatic individuals and the deceased.
The MV Hondius, a polar cruise ship accommodating up to 170 passengers and 70 crew, is operated by Oceanwide Expeditions. The UK Foreign Office is monitoring the situation and ready to support British nationals.
