A hantavirus outbreak aboard the MV Hondius cruise ship, traveling between Argentina and Cape Verde, has resulted in three deaths and left a British citizen critically ill.
Three Passengers Dead, Hantavirus Confirmed
The World Health Organization (WHO) reported on Sunday, May 3rd, the deaths of three passengers on the MV Hondius cruise ship traveling across the Atlantic Ocean from Argentina to Cape Verde. The WHO also reported five suspected cases of hantavirus infection, a rodent-borne disease.
The deceased are a Dutch couple and a German citizen. Hantavirus infection has been confirmed in one of the individuals, while the causes of death for the other two are under investigation.
British Citizen in Critical Condition, Crew Members Ill
On Tuesday, a 69-year-old British citizen onboard the ship tested positive for hantavirus and is currently in intensive care at a hospital in RPA. Two crew members, one British and one Dutch, are experiencing severe respiratory symptoms and are suspected of having been in contact with the deceased German citizen.
While hantavirus has not been confirmed in the crew members, both require urgent medical attention and are scheduled for evacuation from the ship.
Ship Quarantined, Polish Nationals Onboard
The MV Hondius is currently off the coast of Cape Verde. Authorities in Cape Verde have denied docking permission due to safety concerns. The ship carries 149 passengers from 23 countries, including Polish citizens.
The Polish Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated that all Polish citizens onboard are currently feeling well and have not requested any medical or consular assistance.
WHO: Limited Public Health Risk
The World Health Organization has stated that the situation on the ship does not pose a high risk to the general public and does not necessitate travel restrictions. Oceanwide Expeditions, the cruise operator, reports a calm atmosphere among passengers and crew.
Expert: Hantavirus Symptoms Similar to COVID-19
Poland’s Chief Sanitary Inspector, Dr. Paweł Grzesiowski, noted the unusual nature of human-to-human transmission of this type of virus. He explained that hantavirus is a zoonotic virus, with common symptoms including high fever, muscle aches, and weakness—similar to those of COVID-19.
Dr. Grzesiowski further explained that a pulmonary form of the disease exists, causing severe lung damage that can be fatal. He emphasized that hantaviruses are transmitted by rodents through contact with their excrement.
He reassured the public that hantavirus is a rare and minimally contagious disease, and an epidemic is unlikely.
Historical Context: Hantavirus Origins
Hantaviruses have been known since the Korean War, when mysterious infections began affecting both American and Korean soldiers. The virus was first isolated from a field mouse caught near the Hantaan River, hence the name.
Today, over 20 types of hantaviruses are known to exist worldwide.