A British national is fighting for his life in intensive care following a suspected hantavirus outbreak aboard the cruise ship MV Hondius, which has claimed three lives and left several others ill. The World Health Organisation has confirmed the outbreak, believed to be linked to rodent droppings.
Outbreak Details
The MV Hondius, operated by Dutch tour operator Oceanwide Expeditions, was traveling from Argentina to Cape Verde. The vessel departed Ushuaia, Argentina, on 20 March and was scheduled to arrive in Cape Verde on 4 May. At least three other passengers have fallen ill in addition to the British man.
Fatalities and Medical Evacuations
South African health authorities reported that a 70-year-old man and his 69-year-old wife both died after becoming unwell. The man passed away on board, and his body was transferred to Saint Helena. His wife was airlifted to South Africa, where she died in a Johannesburg hospital. A third fatality has been reported but details remain undisclosed.
A 69-year-old British man was evacuated to Johannesburg and is receiving treatment in intensive care. A spokesperson for the South African Department of Health confirmed he tested positive for hantavirus. The Foreign Office stated: "We are closely monitoring reports of a potential hantavirus outbreak on the cruise ship Hondius and stand ready to support British nationals if needed."
WHO Response
The WHO is coordinating between member states and the vessel's operator, including medical evacuations, a public health risk assessment, and ongoing support for those on board. Oceanwide Expeditions confirmed the ship is 107.6 meters long and can accommodate up to 170 passengers across 80 cabins.
