Suspected Hantavirus outbreak on cruise ship leaves passengers stranded off Cape Verde

Health officials say two passengers showing symptoms are being evacuated for treatment. The situation comes after three people died on the ship, including a Dutch couple and a German national. Another British passenger who became ill has already been taken to South Africa for medical care.

The Netherlands’ public health institute (RIVM), which is helping with the investigation, confirmed that hantavirus was found in at least one patient. Officials also said the woman who died had tested positive for the virus. However, it is still not clear if all sick passengers have the same disease or if all deaths are linked to it.

Ship kept at sea as safety step

The ship, MV Hondius, is not being allowed to dock in Cape Verde as a safety measure. Passengers have been told to stay inside their cabins to reduce any possible spread of illness.

Experts say hantavirus does not spread easily from person to person, so the risk to the public is low.

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What is hantavirus?

Hantavirus is a serious illness that usually spreads when people come into contact with rodents like rats or mice. Their droppings or urine can carry the virus. It can cause fever, tiredness, and in severe cases, serious breathing problems.

There is no special medicine for the virus. Doctors mainly provide supportive treatment, such as oxygen or ventilators in serious cases.

Source still unknown

Health experts are still trying to find out how the outbreak started. It may have come from rodents on the ship or during earlier stops on the voyage in South America.

Ongoing situation

Authorities are planning possible screening of passengers and arranging safe travel plans for those affected, while investigations continue.