Suspected hantavirus outbreak on Atlantic cruise ship leaves 3 dead, WHO confirms: What is it and how does it spread?

A suspected outbreak of hantavirus infection aboard a cruise ship in the Atlantic Ocean has left three people dead and several others falling ill, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). The agency said at least six individuals are believed to have been infected, including one laboratory-confirmed case and five suspected infections, with one patient currently in intensive care in South Africa as investigations continue into the source and spread of the virus.

What has happened so far in the virus outbreak on the atlantic cruise ship

“Detailed investigations are ongoing, including further laboratory testing, and epidemiological investigations. Medical care and support are being provided to passengers and crew. Sequencing of the virus is also ongoing,” the agency said.


The WHO said it is “facilitating coordination between” member states and the ship’s operators to evacuate two symptomatic passengers. Authorities are also conducting a full public health risk assessment for those still onboard.

However, the WHO has not officially disclosed the name of the cruise vessel or further specifics about the outbreak.

Cruise ship identified in reports

Netherlands-based company Oceanwide Expeditions reported a “serious medical situation” aboard its polar expedition ship, the MV Hondius, Reuters reported, quoting a press release.

A spokesperson from the Dutch Foreign Ministry confirmed to the news agency that two Dutch passengers had died but did not provide additional details.

According to DW, the ship sailed off Cape Verde after leaving Argentina three weeks ago on a cruise that included stops in Antarctica, the Falkland Islands, and other destinations on its way to Spain's Canary Islands on the other side of the Atlantic.

What is hantavirus and how does it spread?

Hantavirus is a rare but potentially deadly virus found worldwide. It is typically transmitted through contact with the urine, droppings, or saliva of infected rodents such as rats and mice. The infection can lead to a severe respiratory illness known as hantavirus pulmonary syndrome, according to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

While human-to-human transmission is uncommon, the WHO notes that it can occur in rare cases. The Mayo Clinic states that in North America, the deer mouse is the most common carrier.

There is currently no specific cure or targeted treatment for hantavirus infections. However, early diagnosis and supportive medical care can significantly improve survival chances. WHO said an investigation was underway to determine what caused the health crisis aboard the ship.