A suspected outbreak of hantavirus aboard a cruise ship in the Atlantic Ocean has resulted in the deaths of three people, including an elderly couple, with at least three others reported ill. This was confirmed by the World Health Organization and South African health authorities.
In a statement to Associated Press, the WHO revealed that investigations are currently underway, with at least one confirmed case of hantavirus. One patient is receiving treatment in intensive care at a hospital in South Africa, while efforts are being made to evacuate two other symptomatic individuals from the ship.
The Dutch company operating the cruise ship reported that the vessel is currently stationed off the coast of Cape Verde. Authorities have not permitted passengers to disembark, though assistance is being provided. Two crew members onboard are said to be in urgent need of medical care.
Among the deceased are a Dutch husband and wife, aged 70 and 69. According to South Africa’s health ministry, the husband fell ill onboard and passed away on Saint Helena, while his wife died later in a hospital in Kempton Park.
A 69-year-old British man who became ill during the voyage was transferred to a private medical facility in Johannesburg, where he tested positive for hantavirus.
Hantavirus is typically transmitted through contact with urine or faeces from infected rodents. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the virus can lead to two severe conditions:
Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome (HPS) – affects the lungs
Hemorrhagic Fever with Renal Syndrome (HFRS) – affects the kidneys
Although rare, the WHO notes that hantavirus infections can sometimes spread between people. There is currently no specific cure, but early medical intervention significantly improves survival chances.
The WHO confirmed it is actively supporting the response:
“WHO is aware of and supporting a public health event involving a cruise vessel sailing in the Atlantic Ocean.”
Ongoing efforts include laboratory testing, epidemiological investigations, and genetic sequencing of the virus, while medical care continues to be provided to both passengers and crew.
