A third British national has been diagnosed with suspected hantavirus linked to a cruise ship outbreak, health officials have confirmed. The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) reported that the patient is currently on the remote south Atlantic island of Tristan da Cunha, where they remain under medical care.
This new case follows two previously confirmed infections among British nationals, who are being treated in hospitals in the Netherlands and South Africa. The outbreak, associated with the cruise ship MV Hondius, has tragically resulted in three deaths. The World Health Organization has warned that additional hantavirus cases may emerge, although officials believe the outbreak can be contained if proper precautions are taken.
International Response and Monitoring
The situation has sparked international concern, with authorities working to trace the spread of this potentially deadly human-to-human strain. The UKHSA confirmed that none of the British citizens still onboard the ship, which is en route to Tenerife, are currently showing symptoms. However, they are being closely monitored by health officials.
The MV Hondius is expected to dock in Tenerife on Sunday, according to updates from the Spanish health ministry. The UK government is preparing to support disembarking British nationals, with staff on the ground to assist them.
Repatriation and Isolation Measures
British passengers and crew who do not display any hantavirus symptoms will be escorted by UK government staff to an airport and provided free passage back to the UK. A dedicated repatriation flight is being organized, with strict infection control measures in place. UKHSA and NHS specialists will be onboard to monitor passengers and provide care if needed.
Upon returning to the UK, all British passengers and crew from the ship are required to isolate for 45 days, with close monitoring by health officials. The UKHSA stated: "Follow-up is already under way for individuals who may have been in contact with cases and have since returned to the UK or are in UK overseas territories."
Background of the Outbreak
The islands of St Helena, Ascension, and Tristan da Cunha, located in the south Atlantic Ocean between Africa and South America, are central to this outbreak. On April 24, 29 people left the Hondius when it docked in St Helena, including seven Britons. Among them was a Dutch woman who became unwell during onward travel and later died.
The UKHSA continues to work with international partners to manage the outbreak and prevent further cases. The agency emphasized that while the situation is serious, the risk of widespread transmission remains low with appropriate measures.
