Virus Outbreak on MV Hondius Cruise Ship
Three people have died following a suspected virus outbreak on a cruise ship sailing in the Atlantic Ocean, the World Health Organization (WHO) informed the BBC.
One confirmed case of Hantavirus has been identified, with five additional suspected cases currently under investigation. Among those affected, one British national is reported to be in intensive care.
The outbreak occurred aboard the MV Hondius, a cruise ship traveling from Argentina to Cape Verde.
Details on Hantavirus and Transmission
Hantavirus infections are typically associated with environmental exposure, particularly contact with urine or feces from infected rodents. However, in rare instances, the virus can be transmitted between people, potentially causing severe respiratory illness.
Official Statements and Fatalities
Foster Mohale, a spokesperson for South Africa's health ministry, previously informed the BBC that at least two fatalities had occurred.
The MV Hondius is operated by Oceanwide Expeditions, a Dutch-based tour company.
According to the itinerary listed on the Oceanwide Expeditions website, the MV Hondius departed from Ushuaia, Argentina, on 20 March and was scheduled to complete its voyage on 4 May in Cape Verde.
Patient Cases and Evacuations
South African authorities reported that the first individual to exhibit symptoms was a 70-year-old passenger who died onboard. His body remains on the island of Saint Helena, a British territory located in the South Atlantic.
His 69-year-old wife also fell ill during the voyage and was evacuated to South Africa, where she subsequently died in a hospital in Johannesburg.
A 69-year-old British citizen was also evacuated to Johannesburg and is currently receiving treatment in intensive care.
Ship Specifications and WHO Involvement
Oceanwide Expeditions describes the MV Hondius as a polar cruise ship measuring 107.6 meters (353 feet) in length, with accommodations for 170 passengers across 80 cabins.
The WHO is actively assisting in coordinating efforts among member states and the ship's operators for the medical evacuation of two symptomatic passengers. Additionally, the organization is conducting a comprehensive public health risk assessment and providing support to those remaining onboard.
"Three people have died after a suspected virus outbreak on a cruise ship sailing in the Atlantic, the World Health Organization (WHO) has told the BBC."
"One case of Hantavirus has been confirmed, with five more suspected cases under investigation, it said. One British national is reportedly in intensive care."
"Foster Mohale, a spokesperson for South Africa's health ministry, earlier told the BBC that at least two people had died."
"According to an itinerary on the Oceanwide Expeditions website, MV Hondius departed from Ushuaia in Argentina on 20 March and was expected to complete its journey on 4 May in Cape Verde."
"South African authorities told the BBC the first person to show symptoms was a 70-year-old passenger who died on board. His body is now on the island of Saint Helena, a British territory in the South Atlantic."
"His 69-year-old wife also became ill on board and was evacuated to South Africa, where she died in a Johannesburg hospital."
"A 69-year-old Briton was also reportedly evacuated to Johannesburg, where he is being treated in intensive care."
"According to Oceanwide Expeditions, MV Hondius is a 107.6m (353ft) long polar cruise ship, with space for 170 people in 80 cabins."
"WHO also said it was helping co-ordinate between member states and the ship's operators for the medical evacuation of two symptomatic passengers, as well as a full public health risk assessment and support for those still on board."
