Global alert: Hantavirus cases on cruise ship climb to 8; WHO launches worldwide contact tracing; 3 dead
WHO confirms eight cases of Andes hantavirus linked to MV Hondius cruise ship, including three deaths. Global contact tracing underway as authorities monitor the rare outbreak
Hantavirus outbreak update: The World Health Organization (WHO) has raised concern over a rare outbreak of the Andes strain of hantavirus linked to the MV Hondius cruise ship, with confirmed infections now spanning multiple countries.
According to the UN health body, eight persons connected to the vessel have been identified as suspected or confirmed cases. Among them, three infections have been verified through laboratory testing. The outbreak has so far resulted in three deaths, while several others remain under medical observation.
The situation came into sharper focus after Swiss health authorities confirmed a case in a passenger who had travelled on the ship. The individual reportedly sought medical attention in Zurich after responding to a health advisory issued by the cruise operator. Officials said the patient is currently undergoing treatment.
WHO stated that international efforts are underway to trace all possible contacts, with multiple countries coordinating under established global health protocols to limit further spread.
Investigations have confirmed that the infections are linked to the Andes strain of hantavirus, a relatively uncommon variant known for its limited ability to spread between humans. The strain was identified through testing carried out by laboratories in South Africa and Switzerland.
Earlier, South African officials had reported two confirmed cases among passengers who were taken off the vessel. One patient, a British national, is being treated in intensive care, while another, a Dutch passenger, died after being diagnosed posthumously.
Health experts note that hantaviruses are typically transmitted through exposure to rodents or their bodily waste. However, the Andes variant stands apart due to its rare potential for person-to-person transmission, usually in cases involving close and prolonged contact.
The cruise ship, which had departed from Argentina, is currently positioned off the coast of West Africa near Cape Verde. Reports suggest that some infected individuals are still onboard, with evacuation and medical response measures being planned.
Preliminary findings indicate that some of the earliest cases had recently travelled through regions of South America, including Argentina, before joining the voyage.
WHO has said it will continue to assist national authorities in monitoring the situation, ensuring that passengers, crew members and their contacts are kept under surveillance and provided necessary medical guidance.