Three individuals have passed away after a suspected viral outbreak on a cruise vessel believed to be linked to rodent excrement. The World Health Organization reported that a British citizen on board the MV Hondius is in critical condition, with at least three other passengers currently unwell.

The cruise ship, managed by Dutch travel company Oceanwide Expeditions, was en route from Argentina to Cape Verde. The scheduled voyage began on March 20 from Ushuaia, Argentina, with an intended arrival in Cape Verde on May 4.

South African health authorities disclosed that a 70-year-old man and his 69-year-old spouse have succumbed to the illness. The elderly man passed away on the ship, and his body was transported to Saint Helena. Subsequently, his wife also fell ill and was evacuated to South Africa, where she later died in a Johannesburg hospital. Details regarding the third fatality have not been released.

Additionally, a 69-year-old British male was evacuated to Johannesburg and is currently receiving intensive care. A representative from the South African Department of Health mentioned that he fell ill during the voyage and was transferred to a private medical facility. Confirming the presence of Hantavirus in his lab results, the spokesperson emphasized the diagnosis.

Moreover, the UK’s Foreign Office spokesperson indicated their vigilance regarding the possible Hantavirus outbreak on the Hondius cruise ship and readiness to assist British citizens as necessary. Communication with the cruise company and local authorities is ongoing.

The World Health Organization affirmed its involvement in facilitating coordination between member states and the ship’s operator. This includes medical evacuation of symptomatic passengers, a comprehensive public health risk evaluation, and aid for those remaining onboard.

According to Oceanwide Expeditions, the vessel spans 107.6m (353ft) in length and accommodates up to 170 passengers across 80 cabins.