Three people have died and three others are ill following suspected hantavirus infections aboard a cruise ship in the Atlantic Ocean, the World Health Organization (WHO) reported. One case has been confirmed by laboratory testing, and five additional suspected cases are under investigation.
The ship, operated by a Dutch company, departed Argentina three weeks ago and was en route to the Canary Islands. It is currently near Cabo Verde, West Africa. Medical care and support are being provided, including the evacuation of two symptomatic passengers and continued monitoring of those onboard [1].
WHO officials note that hantavirus infections are rare and typically originate from rodent droppings or urine, which can cause severe respiratory problems in some cases. The virus is not easily transmitted between humans, and the current risk to the general public is low. No travel restrictions are recommended at this time.
The UN agency is conducting comprehensive laboratory testing, epidemiological tracing, and genetic sequencing of the virus. National authorities have been informed according to International Health Regulations, and a public disease outbreak update is being prepared [1].