Cruise Ship Passengers Stuck at Sea During Possible Deadly Outbreak

Hondius Cruise Ship Deals with Hantavirus Concerns

Three passengers from the luxury cruise ship Hondius are currently stranded on board following a suspected hantavirus outbreak that resulted in fatalities, according to officials and the cruise line.

The Dutch vessel reached out for help while en route to Cape Verde, carrying 150 individuals, as reported by the Associated Press. The World Health Organization (WHO) confirmed one laboratory case of hantavirus infection along with five additional suspected cases and reported three deaths. One patient in South Africa is in intensive care, and two crew members have needed emergency medical attention. Oceanwide Expeditions stated that neither passengers nor crew have been allowed to leave the ship while they await local authorities’ approval.

Hantaviruses mainly transmit through rodent droppings and urine, causing severe illness, with symptoms that can escalate to conditions like “hemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome,” as noted by the CDC.

The WHO acknowledged awareness of the public health situation involving cruise ships in the Atlantic. So far, they’ve identified one confirmed hantavirus case, in addition to five more under investigation, with three deaths among those affected.

“While uncommon, hantaviruses can sometimes be transmitted between people, leading to serious respiratory issues that need careful medical oversight,” the WHO added.

The agency further mentioned that they are coordinating with national health authorities as per the International Health Regulations and will release a public disease outbreak bulletin soon.

“Ongoing investigations are being conducted, including clinical tests and epidemiological studies,” the WHO said. “Those on board are receiving medical support, and the virus is currently undergoing sequencing.”

As per the Associated Press, a 70-year-old Dutch man passed away on April 11 from symptoms like headaches and fever. His body was taken off the ship two weeks later. His 69-year-old wife reportedly died after a fall at an airport in South Africa. A British passenger, evacuated on April 27, has tested positive for hantavirus and remains in critical condition in South Africa.