The World Health Organization has moved to calm global concerns following reports of a deadly hantavirus outbreak aboard the MV Hondius cruise ship. Speaking on Wednesday, WHO Director General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus stated that the situation does not resemble the early stages of the Covid 19 pandemic, despite heightened international attention.
The alert began over the weekend after three passengers d under suspected cases of hantavirus infection. The vessel has remained anchored off Cape Verde since Sunday as health authorities coordinate emergency response measures. Laboratory confirmation has identified the Andes strain of the virus in at least three cases, a rare variant known for its ability to spread between humans.
Hantavirus infections are typically linked to exposure to infected rodents through urine, droppings, or saliva. Human to human transmission is uncommon, making the Andes strain particularly concerning. However, Tedros emphasized that the overall global risk remains low.
He noted that while the WHO has been actively coordinating with international partners and monitoring developments, there is currently no need to convene an emergency committee. Health teams, including WHO personnel, have been deployed to the ship to assist in managing the situation and protecting passengers and crew.
Efforts have also focused on evacuating infected individuals. Three patients were successfully airlifted and are en route to the Netherlands for further treatment. The operation required urgent coordination, with Tedros acknowledging intense overnight preparations.
The MV Hondius is expected to proceed to the Canary Islands, where remaining passengers will disembark and return to their respective countries. Authorities say monitoring will continue both onboard and internationally to prevent further spread.
Officials maintain that while vigilance is necessary, the situation is under control and does not signal a broader global health emergency.
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