Prime Minister Keir Starmer has issued an update on the hantavirus outbreak aboard the MV Hondius, expressing solidarity with those affected and detailing government action. The outbreak, which has claimed three lives according to the World Health Organization (WHO), involves a rare but severe disease transmitted through contact with infected rodents' urine, faeces, or saliva.
Government Response
In a statement on X, Mr Starmer said: "My thoughts are with those affected by the hantavirus outbreak onboard the MV Hondius. We are working closely with international partners to support British nationals on board and we’re putting plans in place for their safe onward travel." He added that the risk to the wider public remains very low, emphasising that protecting the British people is the government's top priority.
Situation on the MV Hondius
The Dutch cruise ship, carrying nearly 150 passengers and crew including more than 20 Britons, remains in the Atlantic Ocean off Cape Verde. The WHO suspects infections occurred before boarding, with no rats found onboard. Passengers have been advised to practice maximal physical distancing and remain in cabins where possible. Disembarkation, originally expected on May 4, has been delayed.
Two crew members—one British and one Dutch—are being treated for respiratory symptoms, with authorities coordinating their medical evacuation. As of May 4, 2026, the WHO has identified seven cases: two laboratory-confirmed and five suspected, with illness onset between April 6 and 28.
Risk Assessment
The WHO states: "The outbreak is being managed through coordinated international response, including investigations, case isolation, medical evacuation, and laboratory work." While human-to-human transmission is rare, it has occurred with specific hantavirus strains. The WHO currently assesses the risk to the global population as low and continues to monitor the situation.
