Atlantic Ocean hantavirus outbreak on MV Hondius cruise ship leaves three dead, one critical

Three people have died and one person is in intensive care following a suspected Hantavirus outbreak on a cruise ship in the Atlantic Ocean.

The World Health Organization spokesperson said in his post on social media that there are six suspected cases, but so far only one has been confirmed by the laboratory.

“Detailed investigations, including further laboratory testing and epidemiological investigations, are ongoing. Medical care and support is being provided to passengers and crew,” they said.

“Sequencing of the virus continues.

“WHO is facilitating coordination between Member States and Ship operators for the medical evacuation of two symptomatic passengers, as well as the provision of full public health risk assessment and support to passengers remaining on board.”

Hantavirus infections are typically linked to exposure to the urine or feces of infected rodents, the World Health Organization said.

“Although rare, hantavirus can spread between humans and cause serious respiratory illness and requires careful patient monitoring, support and intervention,” they said.

The outbreak occurred on the polar cruise ship MV Hondius, operated by Oceanwide Expeditions, traveling from Argentina to Cape Verde.

The capacity of the ship is 170 passengers and approximately 70 crew.

The first person to show symptoms was a 70-year-old man who died on board. BBC.

His 69-year-old wife was evacuated to South Africa after showing symptoms. He died in a hospital in Johannesburg.

The couple’s nationality has not yet been confirmed but they are understood to be Dutch.

The third person who died was still on the cruise ship Sunday night.

The 69-year-old British national is being treated in the intensive care unit at a hospital in Johannesburg.