SouthernWorldwide.com – The World Health Organization (WHO) has stated that a rare instance of human-to-human hantavirus transmission may have occurred on the luxury cruise ship MV Hondius, which is currently off the coast of Cape Verde. This investigation follows the deaths of three passengers and the illness of at least four others aboard the Dutch vessel, carrying nearly 150 people.
The UN health agency is continuing its inquiry into the outbreak. They have emphasized that human-to-human transmission of hantavirus is uncommon and that the risk to the general public is considered low. The ship has been on a polar cruise originating from Argentina and heading towards Antarctica and several South Atlantic islands.
Maria Van Kerkhove, director of epidemic and pandemic preparedness and prevention at the WHO, explained to reporters in Geneva that they believe some human-to-human transmission might be occurring among individuals in very close contact, such as couples sharing cabins. She noted that the intimate nature of shared living spaces on the ship could facilitate such transmission.
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The WHO reported on Monday that two cases of hantavirus infection have been confirmed through laboratory testing. An additional five suspected cases are still under investigation. Out of the seven individuals affected by the virus, three have tragically passed away, and one is currently in intensive care in South Africa.
According to the UN health agency, hantavirus is typically contracted by humans through contact with the urine, droppings, or saliva of infected rodents. However, limited instances of human-to-human transmission have been documented in past outbreaks involving the Andes variant of the virus.
The WHO was informed that there were no rats found on board the cruise vessel. This information has led to the working hypothesis that the deceased Dutch couple may have contracted the virus in Argentina before boarding the ship. The investigation is ongoing to determine the exact source and spread of the infection.
Authorities are actively working to ascertain if the reported cases are linked and to establish when those requiring medical attention will be permitted to disembark from the ship. The vessel’s journey has been significantly impacted by the health emergency.
On Monday, passengers were instructed by the WHO to remain in their cabins and to limit their exposure to potential risks while disinfection and other necessary measures were being implemented. This directive aimed to contain any further spread of the virus on board.
Van Kerkhove informed reporters that the current plan is for the ship to proceed to the Canary Islands. She confirmed that they are coordinating with Spanish authorities, who are expected to receive the vessel upon its arrival. This arrangement is part of the strategy to manage the situation and provide medical care.
