Cruise Ship Stranded Amid Cape Verde: Hantavirus Outbreak Sparks Alert

A cruise ship near Cape Verde faces a health crisis as a hantavirus outbreak has led to passenger isolation and three deaths. Authorities and WHO are coordinating evacuation and disinfection. The voyage, originally headed for the Antarctic, is now set to continue to the Canary Islands pending further evacuation plans.

A cruise ship carrying nearly 150 people is stranded off the coast of Cape Verde after a suspected hantavirus outbreak left three dead and some ill. Passengers have been confined to their cabins, with authorities refusing disembarkment over public health concerns.

The ship, MV Hondius, is on a polar cruise from Argentina. As Cape Verde ramped up its health response, discussions with WHO and Spanish officials have centered around possibly redirecting the ship to the Canary Islands for medical aid.

Dr. Maria Van Kerkhove from WHO assured that measures are in place, creating a calm atmosphere onboard. The ship's operator is prepared for evacuation protocols while prioritizing passenger isolation and hygiene, aiming to prevent further infection.