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Cruise Ship Hantavirus Outbreak: Three Dead
8 May
Summary
- Hantavirus outbreak on MV Hondius resulted in three deaths.
- Andes strain, known for human-to-human spread, is involved.
- Passengers to disembark at Canary Islands for quarantine.
A hantavirus outbreak aboard the MV Hondius, en route from Argentina to Cape Verde, has led to three confirmed deaths and five suspected cases among its 150 passengers and crew. The virus, typically spread through rodent droppings, is concerningly present in its Andes strain, which is known to transmit between humans. This strain can cause severe respiratory illness with a high mortality rate.
As of May 6th, investigations are underway by the World Health Organization and other health bodies to understand the infection's origin and spread. Infected individuals who fell ill have been hospitalized in Europe, while other passengers remain aboard, with a plan for them to disembark at Spain's Canary Islands around May 10th. Asymptomatic individuals will be repatriated, while Spanish passengers will undergo quarantine, aiming to prevent global health disaster.
