Passengers on the ill-fated MV Hondius cruise ship reportedly held a large barbecue despite the ongoing hantavirus outbreak. The situation has escalated with three confirmed deaths and several cases of the virus, including one British individual in critical condition in South Africa and another stable in the Netherlands.
The World Health Organization has officially announced five confirmed cases of hantavirus, prompting health authorities to track down individuals who disembarked on St Helena. The ship is now en route to the Canary Islands, where it is scheduled to dock soon. Guests on board have expressed growing concerns but are not confined to their rooms, although they are required to wear masks.
A French passenger shared that there is a sense of unease among passengers as they continue to dine together and follow social distancing measures. British passengers are expected to undergo a 45-day self-isolation period upon return. Seven holidaymakers have already left the ship after a tragic incident involving a Dutch passenger and his wife.
Oceanwide Expeditions, the ship’s operator, confirmed that no symptomatic individuals are currently on board and provided details on the ship’s itinerary and health protocols. The company is actively working to identify all passengers and crew members who have been on the ship since March 20.
Martin Anstee, a retired police officer who tested positive for hantavirus, is now in stable condition, according to his wife. Meanwhile, a man who shared a flight with an infected individual from the cruise ship has reportedly contracted the virus and is under close monitoring by health officials.
