Home / Health / Goan Chef Debunks Hantavirus Outbreak Fears on Ship
Goan Chef Debunks Hantavirus Outbreak Fears on Ship
10 May
Summary
- Chef Moraes assures no symptomatic individuals are currently on board.
- Reports of a widespread rescue of sick passengers are denied.
- Three additional doctors, including a WHO representative, are now on board.

A Goan crew member aboard the MV Hondius cruise ship has clarified the situation regarding a hantavirus outbreak. Khabir Moraes stated on Saturday that no passengers are currently exhibiting symptoms, directly contradicting reports of a large-scale rescue operation. He affirmed that all standard health and safety protocols are being rigorously followed.
Earlier reports indicated that the World Health Organization confirmed eight individuals fell ill, with three fatalities linked to the virus on the vessel. The ship, which departed Cape Verde on May 6, 2026, is expected to reach Tenerife in the Canary Islands within three to four days. As of Friday, the ship was anchored off the coast of Cape Verde.