A suspected hantavirus outbreak aboard the Dutch-flagged cruise ship MV Hondius in the Atlantic Ocean has left three dead and several others ill, the World Health Organization confirmed.
One case has been laboratory confirmed; five others are suspected. Three passengers have died, and one is in intensive care in Johannesburg. Two crew members also require urgent medical evacuation, but Cape Verde authorities have not yet authorized disembarkation or widespread screening.
Oceanwide Expeditions, the ship's operator, said it is working with Dutch authorities to repatriate those affected. WHO noted hantavirus, typically spread through rodent droppings, can cause severe respiratory illness and is rarely transmitted between people. There is no specific cure, but early treatment improves survival.
Investigations and laboratory testing are ongoing.