Several countries have confirmed or reported probable cases of hantavirus linked to an outbreak aboard the cruise ship MV Hondius, according to the World Health Organization. The outbreak has already resulted in multiple infections and deaths among passengers and crew members who travelled on the vessel.
The World Health Organization confirmed that six living patients tested positive for the virus, while another case remains probable. In addition, three deaths have been recorded, including two confirmed hantavirus infections and one probable case. Health authorities are also investigating additional suspected infections and close contacts connected to the outbreak.
The Netherlands recorded the highest number of cases linked to the ship. Two Dutch nationals d after developing symptoms during the voyage, while the ship’s doctor also tested positive for the Andes strain of hantavirus. The doctor was later evacuated for treatment in the Netherlands.
Britain confirmed two cases among its citizens and listed another as a probable infection. One British passenger was evacuated to South Africa after developing severe symptoms and later tested positive for the Andes strain. Another British crew member also tested positive after showing symptoms while on board the ship.
Germany reported the death of a woman who developed pneumonia during the voyage and later tested positive for the virus after post mortem examinations. Switzerland confirmed one case involving a man who disembarked from the ship and later tested positive after returning home.
France also confirmed a case involving a woman repatriated from the cruise ship who later developed symptoms and tested positive for hantavirus. In the United States, one repatriated passenger tested mildly positive for the virus while another displayed mild symptoms and was placed under medical observation.
Health officials continue to monitor the situation closely as investigations into the outbreak and possible exposure among passengers remain ongoing.
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