Hantavirus Outbreak on Atlantic Cruise Ship: WHO Takes Action
Hantavirus Incident on Cruise Ship
Photo: @marilyn_dnw/X
Geneva, May 4: The World Health Organization (WHO) announced on Monday that it is actively monitoring a public health situation involving a cruise ship in the Atlantic Ocean, where a hantavirus outbreak has been confirmed, leading to three fatalities and several suspected cases.
According to WHO, “We are aware of and are supporting a public health event related to a cruise vessel in the Atlantic. So far, one case of hantavirus infection has been confirmed through laboratory tests, with five additional cases under suspicion. Among the six individuals affected, three have died, and one is currently receiving intensive care in South Africa.”
The organization emphasized that investigations are ongoing, and medical assistance is being provided to those impacted. “Comprehensive investigations are underway, including further laboratory analyses and epidemiological studies. Medical care and support are being extended to both passengers and crew members. Virus sequencing is also in progress,” stated WHO.
Hantavirus is primarily transmitted to humans from rodents via contact with their urine or feces. It can lead to severe respiratory issues and, in rare instances, may spread between humans. The illness is serious and necessitates close medical supervision and supportive treatment.
This outbreak has been reported on the MV Hondius, a polar cruise ship operated by Oceanwide Expeditions. The ship, which departed from Ushuaia in southern Argentina on March 20, was scheduled to conclude its journey in Cape Verde on May 4. It is a 107.6-meter (353 ft) expedition vessel designed to accommodate up to 170 passengers in 80 cabins, alongside 57 crew members, 13 guides, and one onboard physician.
Among those affected is a 69-year-old British citizen currently in intensive care in Johannesburg, South Africa. Authorities have confirmed one laboratory-confirmed case, while five others are still being investigated as suspected infections.
WHO has also indicated that it is collaborating with member states and the ship’s operators to facilitate medical evacuation for two symptomatic passengers and to conduct a comprehensive public health risk assessment for those remaining onboard.
“WHO is coordinating with Member States and the ship’s operators for the medical evacuation of two symptomatic passengers, as well as conducting a full public health risk assessment and providing support to the remaining passengers on board. We appreciate the swift actions and coordination,” the organization stated.
The agency has notified national focal points under the International Health Regulations and plans to release a Disease Outbreak News report for public awareness.