Three individuals have lost their lives on a cruise vessel due to a suspected viral outbreak believed to be linked to rodent excrement. The presence of one confirmed case of hantavirus has been disclosed, with an additional five potential infections currently under scrutiny. A British citizen is reportedly in critical condition receiving intensive care.
The incident occurred on board the MV Hondius, which was en route from Argentina to Cape Verde, as per information relayed to the BBC by the World Health Organization. Hantavirus infections are commonly associated with environmental exposure, such as contact with urine or feces from infected rodents. In rare instances, the virus can be transmitted between individuals, leading to severe respiratory complications.
Foster Mohale, a representative from South Africa’s health ministry, previously informed the BBC about the demise of at least two people. The vessel is managed by Dutch tour company Oceanwide Expeditions.
As per the company’s publicized schedule, the ship set sail from Ushuaia, Argentina, on March 20 and was scheduled to reach Cape Verde on May 4. Reports from South African authorities indicate that the initial symptomatic individual was a 70-year-old passenger who passed away on the ship, with his body subsequently transported to Saint Helena.
His 69-year-old spouse fell ill during the voyage and was airlifted to South Africa, where she later succumbed in a Johannesburg medical facility. Additionally, a 69-year-old British male was also evacuated to Johannesburg and is presently under intensive care treatment.
Oceanwide Expeditions specified that the ship measures 107.6 meters (353 feet) in length and has a capacity to accommodate up to 170 passengers across 80 cabins. The World Health Organization stated its involvement in facilitating coordination between member states, the ship’s operator, and the medical evacuation of two symptomatic passengers, conducting a comprehensive public health risk evaluation, and extending assistance to those still onboard.