The World Health Organization is investigating a hantavirus outbreak on a cruise ship that has resulted in three deaths and several illnesses.
As of early Tuesday, seven individuals from the MV Hondius have reported illness, including two confirmed cases of hantavirus pulmonary syndrome. The initial patient and his wife likely contracted the virus before boarding.
Hantaviruses are typically carried by rodents and can cause severe respiratory illness in humans. Human-to-human transmission remains rare.
Maria Van Kerkhove from WHO stated, “Our assumption is that they were infected off the ship.” She added, “Sadly, three have died.” The fatality rate for hantavirus pulmonary syndrome is approximately 35%.
The ship, which began its journey in Argentina, is expected to head to the Canary Islands after evacuating infected patients. Passengers have been instructed to remain in their cabins while disinfection measures are implemented.
Officials have reported that the illness can start with flu-like symptoms and can rapidly progress to life-threatening conditions. Currently, one patient remains in intensive care.
In addition to this outbreak, last year saw 23 gastrointestinal outbreaks caused by norovirus on cruise ships. This raises concerns about public health measures on vessels.
The overall risk to the public has been assessed as low by WHO. However, uncertainties remain regarding the exact strain of the virus involved and whether there is any significant human-to-human transmission occurring.
The situation continues to develop as health authorities monitor the outbreak closely.
