Three people have died and three others have fallen ill following a suspected hantavirus outbreak aboard a Netherlands-operated cruise ship, according to officials and media reports.
The vessel, the MV Hondius, is run by Oceanwide Expeditions and was on a polar voyage when the incident occurred.
The company said it is handling a “serious medical situation” as the ship remains near Cape Verde, an island nation off the west coast of Africa.
The journey began in Argentina roughly three weeks ago, carrying about 150 passengers. The itinerary included stops in Antarctica and other destinations before heading toward Cape Verde.
Dutch authorities confirmed that two of the deceased were nationals of the Netherlands, though further details were not disclosed.
Meanwhile, the World Health Organization reported that one infected passenger is receiving intensive care treatment in South Africa.
According to media reports, that individual is believed to be British.
Health officials say laboratory testing has confirmed hantavirus in at least one of the six affected individuals.
The WHO has launched an investigation into the suspected outbreak and is coordinating with relevant countries and the ship’s operator.
Efforts to evacuate those requiring urgent care have faced challenges.
Authorities in Cape Verde have not yet authorized medical disembarkation, prompting Dutch officials to arrange the possible repatriation of two symptomatic passengers, along with the remains of one victim.
Hantavirus is typically transmitted through contact with rodent droppings, urine, or saliva, particularly when contaminated particles become airborne. Although human-to-human transmission is uncommon, it can occur in rare cases.
The infection often begins with flu-like symptoms but can rapidly progress to severe respiratory and cardiac complications.
According to health authorities, the fatality rate can be as high as 40%.
There is currently no specific antiviral treatment, and care is mainly supportive, including the use of ventilators in critical cases.
The WHO said it is assisting with medical evacuation plans, assessing public health risks, and providing support to those still on board the vessel.
Meanwhile, officials from the United Kingdom and South Africa have not yet commented publicly on the situation.
Reuter/Hauwa M.
