The cruise ship MV Hondius has left Cape Verde for the Canary Islands following the evacuation of three individuals exhibiting symptoms of a confirmed hantavirus outbreak. Investigations point to the Andes strain of hantavirus, a rare variant capable of human-to-human transmission, as the cause. The World Health Organization (WHO) has identified a total of eight cases – three confirmed and five suspected – among those aboard the vessel.
The ship's operator, Oceanwide Expeditions, confirmed that two critically ill crew members, one British and one Dutch, along with another passenger, were transported for treatment. Reports indicate two individuals with serious conditions have arrived in the Netherlands for medical attention. A German passenger's body, due to be transported to the Canary Islands, will remain on the ship for now.
Authorities are working to pinpoint the origin of the outbreak, with epidemiological investigations underway. The first known death occurred on April 11, with subsequent fatalities reported. The Dutch government noted that the evacuated individuals hailed from Britain, the Netherlands, and Germany. There was an initial, unconfirmed report that the British national was a doctor, which has since been clarified. Argentine officials are reportedly examining whether a Dutch couple contracted the illness during a pre-boarding bird-watching excursion.
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The ship’s journey began weeks prior to these events. The MV Hondius was anchored off the coast of Cape Verde for the evacuations before continuing its voyage. Health authorities in Arizona have also stated they are monitoring one resident for potential exposure, though this individual remains asymptomatic. The Swiss health ministry confirmed a cruise ship passenger had been hospitalized with hantavirus in Zurich.
The circumstances surrounding the appearance of hantavirus on the ship are still being pieced together. The WHO is collaborating with the ship's operators to maintain a close watch on the health status of all passengers and crew.
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