Three dead after suspected hantavirus outbreak on cruise, patient hospitalised in South Africa

Three people have died due to a deadly virus that erupted at sea aboard a cruise ship in the Atlantic Ocean.

The World Health Organisation (WHO) confirmed that the chilling outbreak occurred on the MV Hondius, which was sailing between Argentina and Cape Verde, with one critically ill patient now in intensive care in South Africa.

Among those who died are a couple and another individual.

Health officials revealed that one case of the rare hantavirus has already been confirmed, with five more suspected infections under investigation.

Experts warn that the situation remains fluid. "Detailed investigations are ongoing, including further laboratory testing, and epidemiological investigations," WHO said.

Samples are being analysed, and the virus is undergoing sequencing as authorities scramble to understand the outbreak.

The disease, typically linked to contact with infected rodent waste, can be devastating. 

"Transmission of hantavirus to humans is through contact with the urine, saliva or faeces from infected rodents, mainly via the aerosol route during activities such as sweeping," said the National Institute for Communicable Diseases (NICD).

Hantavirus can show up in two main ways, both starting like a flu with fever and headaches, added the NICD.

One form can cause stomach and back pain, nausea, blurred vision and even bleeding complications, while the other often begins with body aches and a cough before rapidly developing into severe breathing problems as fluid builds up in the lungs.

The WHO added that although uncommon, hantavirus can be transmitted between people and demands close monitoring, medical support and a coordinated response.

Behind the scenes, urgent rescue efforts are underway. "WHO is facilitating coordination between Member States and the ship's operators for medical evacuation of two symptomatic passengers."

Passengers remain under close watch as global health authorities mobilise.

The WHO has already triggered international alert systems and is preparing to brief the public, warning that the situation is being treated with the utmost seriousness.

IOL News