A third British individual has been identified with hantavirus on Tristan da Cunha, the world’s most secluded island with a population of only 250 residents. The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) reported that two British nationals were confirmed to have contracted hantavirus, with an additional suspected case of a British individual on the island. Seven British passengers disembarked from the MV Hondius cruise ship, which was at the center of the rat virus outbreak, on the neighboring island of St Helena on April 24. The luxury cruise, originating from Argentina, made various stops, including Tristan da Cunha, on April 13.

Oceanwide Expeditions, the cruise ship operator, disclosed that the first case of the fatal virus was confirmed on May 4. Tragically, three individuals on the MV Hondius liner, including an elderly Dutch couple and a German woman, have lost their lives. The first death occurred on April 11 when a 70-year-old Dutch man passed away. Subsequently, his wife, aged 69, deteriorated during a flight to Johannesburg, South Africa, and died upon arrival at an emergency department on April 26.

Another fatality was reported as a German woman succumbed to the virus, while a British passenger was evacuated to South Africa and remains in critical condition. Tristan da Cunha, situated in the South Atlantic Ocean, is a remote island with a small population and limited infrastructure. The island is known for its invasive black rats, prompting a local tradition called “ratting day” where residents come together to eliminate these pests.

Following the outbreak and fatalities, the MV Hondius attempted to dock in Cape Verde but was denied entry. The cruise ship is now en route to Tenerife, Spain. The UKHSA confirmed that British citizens on board are currently symptom-free but are under close observation. The ship is scheduled to dock on Sunday, with evacuations planned for Monday. UK Government personnel will be present to assist British nationals disembarking, providing free passage back to the UK for those without symptoms.

However, the president of the Canary Islands, Fernando Clavijo, objected to the vessel entering the Canaries, and port workers in Tenerife have protested against the decision.