The World Health Organization (WHO) has confirmed that three people have died following a suspected outbreak of hantavirus aboard the MV Hondius, currently stationed off Cape Verde in the Atlantic Ocean.
According to the global health body, one case of the virus has been laboratory confirmed, while five additional infections remain under investigation. Of the six affected individuals, three have died and one is receiving intensive medical care in Johannesburg, South Africa.
The vessel had been on a voyage from Ushuaia, Argentina, to Cape Verde when the outbreak occurred. Health authorities say the situation is being closely monitored, with emergency response measures already underway.
Earlier reports from South Africa’s health ministry indicated that a “severe acute respiratory illness” had broken out among passengers, initially resulting in at least two deaths and leaving another patient in critical condition. Subsequent testing confirmed hantavirus in one of the evacuated patients, according to government spokesperson Foster Mohale.
Hantaviruses are typically transmitted to humans through exposure to infected rodents, their droppings, or contaminated dust. Though rare, some strains can spread between people and lead to severe respiratory complications.
Details released by officials show that the first fatality was a 70-year-old passenger who developed symptoms while on board and later died. His body was transported to Saint Helena. His 69-year-old wife, who also fell ill during the journey, was airlifted to South Africa but later died in hospital.
Another affected passenger, a 69-year-old British national, was also evacuated and remains in intensive care.
WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said the organisation is working with the ship’s operators and relevant national authorities to contain the outbreak and manage the situation.
He noted that efforts include facilitating medical evacuations, conducting a comprehensive risk assessment, and supporting those still onboard. He stressed that swift and coordinated action is essential to limit further spread and safeguard public health.
Authorities are also considering isolating additional symptomatic passengers in Cape Verde before allowing the ship to proceed to the Canary Islands, its next scheduled destination.
The MV Hondius, operated by Dutch company Oceanwide Expeditions, is a polar cruise vessel capable of carrying about 170 passengers and 70 crew members. It typically operates expedition-style voyages, including routes connecting South America, the South Atlantic islands, and West Africa.
As investigations continue, health officials are focusing on identifying the source of the outbreak and preventing further infections, while passengers and crew remain under close observation.
