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Deadly Virus Confirmed Aboard Cruise Liner
7 May
Summary
- A cruise ship passenger died from suspected natural causes.
- Three other passengers were evacuated with hantavirus symptoms.
- Hantavirus is transmitted by rodents and can spread through contaminated air.
A cruise ship has reported a passenger's death due to natural causes, prompting an investigation into potential health risks. The vessel's captain confirmed the incident, assuring that the death was not due to an infectious disease.
However, three other passengers were later evacuated to the Netherlands exhibiting symptoms consistent with hantavirus. This virus, known to be transmitted by rodents, can spread via airborne particles from rodent urine, droppings, or saliva, according to the UK Health Security Agency.
Spanish authorities permitted the ship to proceed to the Canary Islands, a decision met with criticism from the region's president, who cited a lack of information. Health authorities are monitoring passengers both on and off the ship.
