The World Health Organisation (WHO) says it is supporting the response to a public health incident aboard a Netherlands-based cruise ship sailing in the Atlantic Ocean, after one case of hantavirus infection, was confirmed and several others were reported on Sunday.
WHO said laboratory testing has so far confirmed one hantavirus case, with five additional suspected infections. Of the six people affected, three have died and one is being treated in intensive care in South Africa.
Health authorities are carrying out further laboratory analysis, including genetic sequencing of the virus, alongside epidemiological investigations. Medical care and support are being provided to both passengers and crew.
WHO said it is coordinating with member states and the ship’s operators to arrange the medical evacuation of two symptomatic passengers, while also supporting a full public health risk assessment for those remaining on board
Hantavirus infections are usually linked to environmental exposure, particularly contact with the urine or faeces of infected rodents. While rare, the virus can spread between people and may cause severe respiratory illness, requiring close monitoring and specialist care.
The illness begins with flu-like symptoms and can lead to heart and lung failure, with around 40% of cases resulting in death, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control.
There are no specific drugs to treat hantavirus, so treatment focuses on supportive care, including putting patients on ventilators in severe cases.
Netherlands-based Oceanwide Expeditions said in a news release it was "managing a serious medical situation" on a polar expedition ship, the MV Hondius, which was off Cape Verde, an island nation in the Atlantic west of Africa.
The cruise departed from Argentina about three weeks ago with around 150 passengers and stopped in the Antarctic and other locations on its way to Cape Verde, according to media reports.
A Dutch Foreign Ministry spokesperson confirmed that two Dutch passengers had died, but gave no further details.
The organisation said national focal points have been informed in line with International Health Regulations and that a public Disease Outbreak News update will be issued.
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