Agency says risk to public remains low after deaths and illnesses reported at sea
The World Health Organization (WHO) has sought to reassure the public following reports of a suspected hantavirus outbreak aboard a cruise ship in the Atlantic Ocean, stating that the overall risk remains low.
The advisory comes after reports that three people died and three others fell ill on the MV Hondius, an expedition vessel operated by Oceanwide Expeditions. The ship was carrying around 150 passengers and had travelled from Argentina, with stops in Antarctica, before heading toward Cape Verde.
Speaking on the situation, WHO Regional Director for Europe, Hans Kluge, said the organisation is supporting response efforts but stressed that there is no cause for alarm.
“The risk to the wider public remains low. There is no need for panic or travel restrictions,” he said.
Hantavirus infections are rare and are typically linked to contact with infected rodents. Human-to-human transmission is considered uncommon, according to the WHO.
The agency added that it is working with relevant countries on medical care, evacuation procedures and ongoing investigations to determine the source and scope of the suspected outbreak.
A spokesperson for the Netherlands’ foreign ministry confirmed that two Dutch nationals were among those who died on board, though further details have not been disclosed.
Laboratory testing has so far confirmed hantavirus infection in at least one of the reported cases, while investigations continue into the remaining cases and the circumstances surrounding the incident.
