Geneva (TDI): The World Health Organization (WHO) has said there is no need for public alarm after a suspected hantavirus outbreak on a cruise ship in the Atlantic Ocean, stating that the overall risk to the wider public remains low.
The situation emerged on the MV Hondius, a polar expedition cruise operated by Netherlands-based Oceanwide Expeditions. The company said it is “managing a serious medical situation” aboard the vessel, which was located off the coast of Cape Verde, an island nation near West Africa.
According to reports, the ship had departed Argentina around three weeks earlier with approximately 150 passengers. During its journey, it stopped in Antarctica and other locations before heading toward Cape Verde.
The WHO confirmed that three people have died and three others have fallen ill in what is suspected to be an outbreak of hantavirus, a rare disease typically associated with exposure to infected rodents. The organization stressed that human-to-human transmission is uncommon.
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WHO Regional Director for Europe, Hans Kluge, said the agency is working closely with relevant countries to support medical response efforts, including treatment, evacuation of patients, and ongoing investigation of the situation. He also emphasized that there is no need for panic or travel restrictions.
A Dutch Foreign Ministry spokesperson confirmed that two Dutch nationals were among those who died, although further details were not provided.
The WHO also said laboratory testing has confirmed hantavirus in at least one of the six affected individuals. One patient is reportedly in intensive care in South Africa, with media reports identifying the patient as British, citing South African health authorities.
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Hantavirus infections are considered uncommon and are usually linked to contact with rodents. While some cases can become severe, health experts say the virus does not spread easily between people.
The investigation and medical response are continuing as authorities monitor the situation on board and coordinate with international health agencies.
