The outbreak on a luxury cruise ship has led to an increase in suspected Hantavirus cases, with a total of seven individuals now affected. Passengers onboard the MV Hondius cruise ship in West African waters have been instructed to remain on board while authorities work to contain the illness. The World Health Organization disclosed that among the seven cases, two have been confirmed through laboratory tests, and the remaining five are considered suspected cases.
Hantavirus, a rare disease typically carried by rodents and occasionally transmitted to humans through contact with infected rodent excretions, has resulted in the deaths of three passengers on the cruise ship. Additional cases include one critically ill passenger and three individuals exhibiting mild symptoms. The onset of illness occurred between April 6 and 28, 2026, with reported symptoms such as fever, gastrointestinal issues, rapid progression to pneumonia, acute respiratory distress syndrome, and shock.
The World Health Organization is conducting investigations, including further laboratory tests and epidemiological inquiries, while providing medical care and support to passengers and crew members. Detailed case studies have been released, highlighting the symptoms experienced by affected individuals. Notably, a Dutch male and his wife, aged 70 and 69 respectively, faced severe symptoms leading to their deaths after traveling through South America before boarding the ship.
Furthermore, a 69-year-old British man exhibited signs of pneumonia and was evacuated for critical care, while a female adult onboard succumbed to pneumonia. Three other suspected cases with high fevers and gastrointestinal symptoms remain onboard, including a British crew member. The cruise operator Oceanwide stated that three passengers have passed away during the voyage, with one individual in intensive care and two crew members requiring urgent medical attention.
Despite the situation, no authorization has been granted by Cape Verdean authorities as of May 3, 2026, for the disembarkation of individuals needing medical care or assistance with medical screening.
