More than 20 British nationals are stranded on the Dutch-flagged MV Hondius luxury cruise ship off Cape Verde following a suspected hantavirus outbreak. The World Health Organisation has confirmed at least one case of hantavirus, prompting an investigation into the outbreak.
Deaths and Illnesses
Three people, a Dutch couple and a German national, have died, and at least three others are ill, including a 69-year-old British tourist in intensive care. The ship has been denied docking permission in Cape Verde to protect public health, with authorities assessing the situation for disembarkation and medical screening.
Transmission and Investigation
Hantavirus is typically spread by rodents and has a low risk of human-to-human transmission, though the exact source of the infection on board remains under investigation. The WHO is working with local and international health authorities to contain the outbreak and provide medical assistance to those affected.
