The World Health Organization is leading an international response after a deadly hantavirus outbreak on a cruise ship in the Atlantic Ocean. Three people have died and several others are suspected to be infected. One patient remains in intensive care in South Africa.
To date, one case has been lab-confirmed, with five additional suspected cases among passengers and crew.
WHO Regional Director for Africa, Mohamed Yakub Janabi, called the event serious but contained, stating there is no need for panic or travel restrictions. He emphasized the focus is on saving lives, containing risks, and providing science-based support.
WHO’s Bhanu Bhatnagar noted hantavirus infections are rare and typically linked to rodents. The virus is not easily transmitted between people, and the risk to the general public remains low.
Two symptomatic passengers are being medically evacuated. WHO is coordinating with the ship’s operators and national authorities under the International Health Regulations. Investigations include laboratory testing, epidemiological tracing, and genetic sequencing of the virus.