Three Dead in Suspected Hantavirus Outbreak on Cruise Ship off West Africa

A suspected hantavirus outbreak on a cruise ship in the Atlantic Ocean has killed three people and sickened several others, the World Health Organization said in a statement on X.

The U.N. agency reported one laboratory-confirmed hantavirus infection and five additional suspected cases pending confirmation. Among the six affected people, three have died and one remains in intensive care in South Africa.

The WHO is working with governments and the ship's operator to arrange medical evacuation for two symptomatic passengers. The agency continues to evaluate the public health risk to those still aboard.

"Detailed investigations are ongoing, including further laboratory testing, and epidemiological investigations," the WHO said. "Medical care and support are being provided to passengers and crew. Sequencing of the virus is also ongoing."

The outbreak involves the m/v Hondius, a Dutch-flagged cruise ship operating off the West Africa coast. Oceanwide Expeditions, the vessel's operator, confirmed the three passenger deaths during the voyage and treatment of one passenger in intensive care in Johannesburg.

The company said two crew members also need urgent medical care.

As of late Sunday, Cape Verde authorities had not permitted disembarkation of passengers needing treatment or wider medical screening, according to Oceanwide Expeditions.

Local health officials boarded the ship to assess conditions but have not cleared the transfer of symptomatic individuals to land facilities.

"The priority of Oceanwide Expeditions is to ensure that the two symptomatic individuals on board receive adequate and expedited medical care," the company said.

Dutch authorities are coordinating repatriation of affected people from Cape Verde to the Netherlands, pending local approval, Oceanwide Expeditions added.

Hantavirus infections usually stem from exposure to infected rodents' urine or feces and can cause severe respiratory illness.

"While rare, hantavirus may spread between people, and can lead to severe respiratory illness and requires careful patient monitoring, support and response," the WHO said.

No specific cure exists for the virus, but early treatment can boost survival odds.

The WHO has notified global health authorities under international rules and keeps supporting the response.

"We are currently establishing the full facts and working on appropriate medical care, screening, and next steps," Oceanwide Expeditions said.