05/07/2026
Three Dead in Suspected Hantavirus Outbreak Aboard Atlantic Cruise Ship
Three people have died following a suspected hantavirus outbreak aboard the MV Hondius, which was sailing from Argentina to Cape Verde. Health officials have confirmed one case of the virus, with five additional suspected infections under investigation. A British passenger remains in intensive care in Johannesburg. The ship, operated by Oceanwide Expeditions, departed Ushuaia on March 20 and was due to arrive in Cape Verde on May 4.
Authorities say the first victim, a 70-year-old passenger, died on board and was later transferred to Saint Helena. His wife, 69, also fell ill during the voyage and died after being evacuated to South Africa. Hantavirus is typically linked to exposure to infected rodent waste, though rare human-to-human transmission can occur. The World Health Organization is now coordinating response efforts, including medical evacuations and a broader public health risk assessment for those still on board.
