Cruise Ship Outbreak: Britons Await Evacuation

British nationals are currently stranded on the cruise ship MV Hondius, which is experiencing a suspected hantavirus outbreak. As of May 6, 2026, critical medical evacuations were being prepared in Cape Verde for several individuals, including a British crew member and a Dutch colleague, along with a passenger.

The Dutch-flagged vessel is off the coast of Cape Verde, where two air ambulance planes were expected to facilitate the evacuation. A medical specialist was also en route to assist. Once these evacuations are complete, the ship is slated to continue its journey, with an estimated three days of sailing to the Canary Islands.

Concerns remain high as health authorities investigate the source of the virus. Experts suggest potential human-to-human transmission among those in close contact, though initial infections are thought to have occurred off the ship, possibly during wildlife-related activities. Passengers are currently confined to their cabins for disinfection and public health measures.

The UK government is actively involved, with Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer stating that plans are in place for the "safe onward travel" of affected Britons. While one British passenger who was evacuated on April 27 is improving in intensive care in Johannesburg, others remain on board awaiting medical attention. The World Health Organization has confirmed seven suspected cases, including three deaths, with two cases confirmed as hantavirus. Measures such as isolation, handwashing, and monitoring close contacts are being implemented to control the spread.