A suspected hantavirus outbreak on a luxury cruise ship has resulted in three deaths and left nearly 150 passengers, including four Canadians, stranded at sea. The incident occurred on the MV Hondius, which was off the coast of Cape Verde on May 4, 2026. Seven cases of hantavirus have been identified, including two confirmed cases and five suspected cases.
Key facts:
- Three deaths reported among infected individuals, including a Dutch couple aged 70 and 69.
- A British man evacuated to South Africa is in critical condition after testing positive for hantavirus.
- Approximately 150 people remain on board the vessel.
- The World Health Organization (WHO) assesses the risk to the wider public as low.
- Hantavirus can cause severe respiratory illness, primarily transmitted through contact with rodent droppings or urine.
The outbreak is currently under investigation by the WHO and local health authorities. Oceanwide Expeditions, the cruise operator, stated that strict precautionary measures are being implemented on board. Symptoms of hantavirus can appear one to eight weeks after exposure.
Yet, uncertainties persist regarding the exact source of the outbreak. Officials have not confirmed whether the Dutch couple died specifically from hantavirus or other causes. Concerns about potential person-to-person transmission have also been raised, though such occurrences are rare.
There is no specific treatment for hantavirus; supportive care remains the focus for those affected. Experts emphasize that even a small number of rodents can lead to infection—”It doesn’t take thousands and thousands of rodents. All it takes is one potentially in the right circumstance to cause an infection,” said Dr. Scott Weese.
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