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Three people were medically evacuated from the MV Hondius cruise ship after a deadly outbreak of the Andes strain of hantavirus. The ship, carrying 147 individuals from 23 countries, departed from Ushuaia, Argentina, about a month ago and has since anchored off Cape Verde, west Africa.
The World Health Organization (WHO) reports that three passengers have died from the virus, which is rare but known to spread between people, especially with the Andes strain. The cases include a 56-year-old Briton, a 41-year-old Dutch national, and a 65-year-old German, who were evacuated for medical care. In Switzerland, a man who traveled home after being on the ship is now hospitalized with a confirmed hantavirus infection.
Strict safety protocols remain in place onboard, with roughly 150 people still aboard and practicing limited contact. The cruise operator, Oceanwide Expeditions, stated all are following precautionary measures. The operator intends to sail the vessel to the Canary Islands, where Spanish authorities have agreed to allow passengers to disembark for medical checks and support. However, the president of the Canary Islands has voiced concern and requested a meeting with Spain's prime minister before the ship arrives.
The outbreak has led to eight cases (three confirmed, five suspected), with health officials tracing contacts that include paramedics, port officials, and airline personnel. The WHO maintains that, at this stage, the overall public health risk is low, but active monitoring and follow-up for passengers and crew are underway. The virus is typically transmitted through rodent droppings and urine, but human-to-human transmission is possible with this specific strain.
Currently, there is no specific treatment or vaccine for hantavirus infections. Supportive care and early transfer to intensive care, if needed, can improve survival rates. According to the WHO, infection prevention measures are being enforced on board, including hand hygiene, mask-wearing for those with symptoms, and isolation for anyone feeling ill.