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Hantavirus on Cruise: 3 Dead, Passengers Head to Canary Islands
7 May
Summary
- Three individuals died from hantavirus following a birdwatching expedition.
- The Andes strain of hantavirus, which can spread person-to-person, was identified.
- MV Hondius is en route to the Canary Islands for passenger repatriation.
A viral outbreak of hantavirus has resulted in the deaths of three individuals, prompting concerns aboard the MV Hondius cruise ship. The outbreak is linked to a birdwatching expedition in Argentina. Three people, including a British crew member, were evacuated for emergency medical treatment on Wednesday.
The identified strain of the virus is the Andes strain, known for its potential for person-to-person transmission. Initial symptoms of hantavirus can be non-specific, resembling a flu-like illness, progressing to severe respiratory distress in later stages. The mortality rate for hantavirus is estimated to be between 30 to 40 percent.
The MV Hondius has since anchored at a port in Praia, Cape Verde, and is now making its way to the Canary Islands. Arrangements are being made for the repatriation of non-symptomatic British passengers upon arrival. Those returning will undergo a 45-day isolation period as a precautionary measure, though no British citizens on board are currently reporting symptoms.
