Three people have died following a suspected outbreak of Hantavirus infection aboard the cruise vessel MV Hondius, with the World Health Organization (WHO) confirming at least one case and investigating additional infections.
The global health body said six individuals have been affected so far, while five more cases remain under investigation. One patient is currently receiving intensive care treatment in South Africa.
WHO disclosed that epidemiological investigations, laboratory testing and virus sequencing are ongoing to determine the source and full scope of the outbreak. Medical care is being provided to both passengers and crew on board the vessel.
Efforts are also underway to evacuate two symptomatic passengers, with WHO coordinating closely with member states and the ship’s operators. A broader public health risk assessment is being conducted for the remaining passengers.
Authorities confirmed that relevant national health agencies have been notified under international health regulations, while a public outbreak update is expected.
The ship’s operator reported that the deceased include a Dutch couple and a German national. However, the exact cause of death has not yet been officially established.
Voyage details and contact tracing
The MV Hondius, with around 150 tourists on board, left Argentina about three weeks ago, visiting Antarctica and the Falkland Islands before proceeding toward the Canary Islands.
South African health authorities revealed that contact tracing is ongoing in Johannesburg to identify anyone who may have been exposed after infected passengers passed through the country.
Understanding Hantavirus
WHO noted that Hantavirus infections are typically linked to environmental exposure, especially contact with urine or faeces of infected rodents such as rats and mice. While human-to-human transmission is rare, the virus can cause severe respiratory illness, requiring close monitoring and coordinated medical response.
