NewsIndia

A suspected outbreak of hantavirus infections on the MV Hondius has resulted in three deaths and sickened at least three others. This incident occurred on May 3, 2026, while the ship was sailing in the Atlantic Ocean near Cape Verde.

Key facts:

• One case of hantavirus infection has been laboratory confirmed.
• The outbreak is the first known associated with cruise ships.
• The ship had around 150 passengers onboard at the time of the outbreak.
• Three individuals have died, including an elderly couple from the Netherlands.

The MV Hondius left Argentina three weeks before the outbreak. Local authorities have not allowed anyone to disembark as the ship remains anchored near Cape Verde. One patient is currently in intensive care in a South African hospital, while two crew members are requiring urgent medical care.

Hantaviruses spread primarily through contact with infected rodent urine or feces. Experts emphasize that this incident raises significant public health concerns regarding cruise ship sanitation and safety measures. Nicole M. Iovine, MD, PhD, noted that if passengers see rodents or droppings, they should avoid those areas and notify personnel.

Yet uncertainties remain about this outbreak. The strain of hantavirus involved has not been disclosed, and it is unclear how the six patients were infected. The World Health Organization is aware of the situation and is supporting local health authorities in their response.