On Sunday, the World Health Organization (WHO) announced a suspected hantavirus infection outbreak aboard a cruise ship in the Atlantic Ocean.
“As of now, there is one confirmed case of hantavirus infection in the laboratory, along with five additional suspected cases,” the global health body stated in a post on X.
“Among the six individuals affected, three have succumbed to the illness, and one individual is currently receiving intensive care in South Africa.”
The organization indicated that an investigation is in progress to determine the cause of the health emergency on the ship.
A spokesperson for the Dutch Foreign Ministry informed the Reuters news agency that two Dutch passengers had lost their lives, though no further information was provided.
Understanding hantavirus infection
Hantavirus is prevalent worldwide.
It typically spreads through contact with the urine or feces of infected rodents, such as rats and mice.
According to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the virus can lead to a severe and potentially fatal lung infection known as hantavirus pulmonary syndrome.
While transmission between humans is uncommon, the WHO has noted that it can occur.
Currently, there is no specific treatment or cure for hantavirus infections, but prompt medical intervention can enhance survival rates.
Contact tracing in South Africa
The South African health department reported that the outbreak originated from the MV Hondius cruise ship.
According to officials, there were approximately 150 tourists on board.
The ship had departed from Argentina about three weeks ago, embarking on a cruise that included visits to Antarctica, the Falkland Islands, and other destinations en route to Spain’s Canary Islands on the opposite side of the Atlantic.
South African authorities have stated that they are engaged in contact tracing efforts in the Johannesburg area to ascertain whether other individuals have been exposed to the infected passengers.
