Passengers aboard the MV Hondius cruise ship have been forced to remain on the vessel for 13 days after the first death, as authorities scramble to contain a suspected outbreak of Hantavirus. The rare, rodent-borne illness has led to seven suspected cases, with three passengers confirmed dead.
Timeline of Events
The Dutch-flagged MV Hondius has been anchored off the coast of West Africa, near Cape Verde, since late April. According to Oceanwide Expeditions, the cruise operator, a 70-year-old Dutch male passenger first exhibited symptoms on April 6, including fever, headache, and mild diarrhoea. His condition worsened, leading to respiratory distress, and he died on April 11. His body remained on the ship until April 24, when it was disembarked on the remote island of St Helena.
The man's wife, aged 69, who also reported gastrointestinal symptoms, left the cruise at the same time. However, her condition deteriorated during a flight to Johannesburg, and she died at an emergency department on April 26.
British Passenger Critically Ill
A third victim, a 69-year-old British man, became seriously ill on the cruise and was medically evacuated to South Africa, where he remains in critical condition. He presented with shortness of breath and signs of pneumonia, and later tested positive for a variant of Hantavirus.
A fourth person, an adult female, died on May 2 with symptoms of pneumonia, though her cause of death has not yet been established. Oceanwide Expeditions stated that the exact cause of the deaths and cases is under investigation, along with any possible connections between them.
Current Situation
Approximately 150 passengers and crew members remain on the MV Hondius. The World Health Organisation confirmed on Monday that the number of suspected Hantavirus cases has risen to seven. Oceanwide Expeditions reported that strict precautionary measures are in place, including isolation protocols, enhanced hygiene measures, and medical monitoring. All passengers have been informed and are receiving support.
The operator confirmed that 19 passengers and 4 crew members on board are British nationals. In a statement, Oceanwide Expeditions said: "Strict precautionary measures are in process on board, including isolation measures, hygiene protocols and medical monitoring. All passengers have been informed and are being supported." The company added that it is in close contact with those directly involved and their families, providing support where possible.
Background on Hantavirus
Hantavirus is a rare disease carried by rodents, occasionally spreading to humans through contact with urine, faeces, or saliva of infected rodents. Symptoms can include fever, muscle aches, and respiratory distress, which can be fatal in severe cases. Authorities are working to contain the outbreak and prevent further spread.
