The World Health Organization (WHO) has confirmed five cases of hantavirus and three deaths linked to an outbreak aboard the cruise ship MV Hondius.
According to reports, the vessel was carrying 147 passengers and crew from 23 countries while travelling from Argentina toward Cape Verde and Europe.
Health officials say the outbreak involves the Andes virus strain, a rare form of hantavirus capable of limited human-to-human transmission.
So far:
▪️ Confirmed Cases: 5
▪️ Suspected Cases: 3
▪️ Deaths: 3, including a Dutch couple and a German national
The WHO has described the global public health risk as low, stressing that most people are unlikely to be exposed to the virus.
Symptomatic passengers have reportedly been evacuated for treatment in South Africa, Germany, the Netherlands, and Switzerland, while the ship is expected to dock in Tenerife on May 9 under strict health protocols.
Hantavirus is commonly spread through contact with rodent urine, saliva, or droppings. Early symptoms include fever, fatigue, and muscle aches, but severe cases can progress into serious respiratory complications.
Currently, there is no specific cure or vaccine for the virus.
