Hantavirus Outbreak on Luxury Cruise: WHO Investigates Rare Human Transmission

The World Health Organization suspects rare human-to-human transmission of hantavirus on a luxury cruise ship, affecting passengers and crew. With confirmed deaths and cases, the ship remains anchored off Cape Verde. The WHO investigates the outbreak which originated with infected rodents but shows concern for limited transmission among close contacts.

The World Health Organization announced on Tuesday that it suspects rare human-to-human transmission of the deadly hantavirus occurred among close contacts aboard the luxury cruise ship MV Hondius, which reported multiple confirmed or suspected cases. Human transmission is not typical for this virus, primarily spread by contact with infected rodents.

Officials report that a Dutch couple and a German passenger have died, with a British national receiving intensive care in South Africa. Two crew members urgently require medical attention, according to the ship's operator, Oceanwide Expeditions. Another passenger has reported a mild fever amid the outbreak.

Amidst preparations for medical evacuations by the Dutch foreign ministry, the cruise remains docked off Cape Verde, awaiting clearance. The WHO continues testing, exploring potential links to the Andes strain known for limited human transmission in South America.