Hantavirus Outbreak on Cruise Ship in the Indian Ocean Kills Three
News Summary
Prepared after review.
- A hantavirus outbreak has occurred on board the M/V Hondius cruise ship sailing in the Indian Ocean, with the World Health Organization confirming three deaths.
- The World Health Organization (WHO) has confirmed infection in one person and identified five others as suspected cases, while South Africa is treating a British infected passenger in the ICU.
- WHO is investigating the virus’s genetic makeup and coordinating with the ship operator and member states to assist with rescue efforts and risk assessments.
April 21, Kathmandu – A deadly hantavirus outbreak is suspected aboard a tourist cruise ship sailing in the Indian Ocean. According to the World Health Organization, three people have died so far due to the outbreak.
The M/V Hondius, traveling from Argentina to Cape Verde, experienced the emergence of the virus on board. WHO has confirmed one infection and placed five additional passengers under suspicion as potential cases.
South Africa’s Ministry of Health confirmed an infection in a British passenger who is currently being treated in an intensive care unit. This development has caused alarm among other passengers on the ship.
The first fatality was a 70-year-old man who exhibited sudden symptoms of fever, headache, and stomach pain while still on the ship. He died after the vessel reached St. Helena Island.
Shortly afterwards, his 69-year-old wife developed similar symptoms and later died while receiving treatment at a hospital in South Africa, health officials confirmed.
The World Health Organization is taking the incident very seriously and has initiated investigation and support measures to address the growing public health crisis in the Indian Ocean region.
WHO continues laboratory testing and epidemiological research, with scientists actively working to identify the virus’s genetic structure. Additionally, WHO is coordinating with the ship’s operators and member states to facilitate the rescue of infected individuals and to assess remaining risks.
Flying the Dutch flag, the cruise ship departed from Ushuaia, Argentina approximately three weeks ago, carrying around 150 international tourists. The route has included visits to Antarctica, the Falkland Islands, South Georgia, and St. Helena, and it arrived at the Cape Verde capital, Praia, on Sunday night.
A spokesperson for the British Foreign Office stated that they remain in regular contact with local authorities regarding the condition of their citizens and are prepared to provide necessary assistance.