Three people are dead after a suspected Hantavirus outbreak.
The outbreak reportedly occurred aboard a polar cruise ship in the Atlantic. The outbreak also left one person in intensive care and has prompted a response from international health authorities.
The World Health Organization and South Africa’s Department of Health reported that the outbreak happened on the Dutch-operated vessel MV Hondius, which had been at sea for weeks after leaving Argentina on a route that included the Falkland Islands and Antarctica.
So far, at least one infection has been confirmed by a laboratory, while other passengers and crew members experienced symptoms consistent with the virus. The ship is currently being held offshore near Cape Verde. Officials also blocked passengers from disembarking as they investigate the risk.
“Detailed investigations are ongoing, including further laboratory testing and epidemiological investigations,” the WHO said in a statement. They also stated that medical care is being administered on both land and sea.
This virus is typically transmitted through exposure to infected rodent droppings, urine, or saliva. It can lead to life-threatening conditions such as hantavirus pulmonary syndrome or hemorrhagic fever with renal complications.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), although uncommon, the infections carry a high fatality rate, estimated at roughly 38% to 40% in severe respiratory cases.
Officials have stressed that the broader public is not at risk. “The risk to the wider public remains low. There is no need for panic or travel restrictions,” Dr. Hans Henri P. Kluge, WHO’s regional director, said.
The victims were a 70-year-old man, who died on board, and his wife, who collapsed and died in South Africa. The third victim is still on the vessel.
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