Hantavirus Hits Luxury Cruise: WHO Investigates Human Transmission

The World Health Organization (WHO) suspects limited human-to-human transmission of hantavirus on a luxury cruise ship with cases confirmed among passengers. A Dutch couple and a German national have died, while a British national is in intensive care. The ship remains marooned off Cape Verde, with evacuation plans underway.

The World Health Organization reported potential human-to-human transmission of hantavirus on a luxury cruise ship after several passengers fell ill. A Dutch couple and a German national succumbed to the virus, with another patient in critical condition.

The cruise commenced from Argentina and encountered infections possibly originating during off-ship activities. Currently docked off the Cape Verde coast, the ship is barred from disembarking passengers until further containment measures and testing are completed.

The WHO emphasized that while human transmission of hantavirus is unusual, the risk to the general public remains low. Efforts are focused on evacuating those needing medical attention, as investigations proceed.