Hantavirus May Have Spread Between Passengers on Cruise Ship, WHO Says

Hantavirus may have spread between passengers – The World Health Organization (WHO) has raised concerns about potential human-to-human transmission of the hantavirus aboard a Dutch cruise ship, where three passengers have died. While the virus typically spreads through contact with rodents, the WHO suggested that in this instance, it might have passed among individuals in close proximity on the MV Hondius vessel. The organization emphasized that the risk to the general public remains minimal.

Medical Evacuations and Suspected Cases

Two crew members, one from the UK and another from the Netherlands, have been scheduled for medical evacuation by air after displaying acute respiratory symptoms, according to Oceanwide Expeditions, the ship’s operator. The MV Hondius embarked on its Atlantic crossing from Argentina approximately a month prior, currently moored off the coast of Cape Verde in the Atlantic Ocean. Health professionals from Cape Verde, supported by WHO experts, have joined the vessel to assist with suspected cases, spokesperson Tarik Yasarevic told the BBC.

Testing is ongoing for additional passengers and crew exhibiting symptoms. Photographs captured from the cruise ship depict workers in protective gear aboard a smaller vessel nearby. Approximately 149 individuals from 23 different nations remain on board, adhering to stringent precautionary protocols. Among these passengers are around 20 British citizens, as confirmed by a UK government representative.

Investigation and Transmission Hypotheses

WHO official Dr. Maria Van Kerkhove stated, “We do believe that there may be some human-to-human transmission happening among the really close contacts.” She noted that the initial case could have been contracted before boarding the ship. “Our working hypothesis is that there’s probably a couple of different types of transmission that might be happening,” Van Kerkhove explained during a BBC Breakfast interview on Tuesday.

Investigators are considering the Andes strain of the virus, which is prevalent in South America, as the source of infection in the two confirmed cases. Van Kerkhove highlighted that the ship had no rats on board, and disinfection measures are being implemented. Those handling patients or showing symptoms are required to wear full personal protective equipment. The cruise had visited several islands, some of which are known to harbor rodents, which typically spread the virus through their feces, saliva, or urine.

Family Response and Passenger Accounts

“The beautiful journey they experienced together was abruptly and permanently cut short.” “We are still unable to comprehend that we have lost them. We wish to bring them home and commemorate them in peace and privacy.”

The family of the Dutch couple expressed their sorrow, stating that the tragic deaths had ended their shared adventure. They are seeking to repatriate the victims and honor them in a private setting. Meanwhile, a passenger who asked to remain anonymous described the current atmosphere on the ship as “pretty good,” noting that the mood remains positive despite the uncertainty. “Hopefully the other patients on board will be tested soon and then we’ll know what’s going on,” the individual said.

Another passenger, travel vlogger Jake Rosmarin, shared on social media that the situation’s unpredictability is the most challenging aspect. “There’s a lot of uncertainty, and that’s the hardest part. All we want right now is to feel safe, to have clarity, and to get home,” he wrote. The passenger highlighted the emotional toll of the outbreak, emphasizing the desire for reassurance and a return to normalcy.

Spain’s Role in the Situation

Spain has granted permission for the MV Hondius to dock in the Canary Islands, where a risk assessment and further medical monitoring can take place. However, the country’s health ministry has downplayed speculation about the ship’s immediate acceptance. “Depending on epidemiological data gathered from the boat as it travels past Cape Verde, the most appropriate next stop for it will be decided,” the ministry stated. “Until then, the health ministry will not take a decision, as we have explained to the WHO.”

A spokesperson for Spain’s health ministry confirmed that no formal request for the ship to stop at the Canary Islands has been received yet. “We are prepared to take charge of the situation should that change,” they added, indicating readiness to provide medical attention, diagnostic analysis, and disinfection services. The ministry, however, did not specify whether passengers would be allowed to disembark.

Confirmed Cases and Ongoing Measures

The two confirmed cases include a Dutch woman, who is among the deceased, and a 69-year-old UK citizen evacuated to South Africa for medical treatment. Her spouse also succumbed to the illness but is not yet confirmed as a case, nor is the German national who passed away on May 2nd. A person associated with the German passenger is set to be medically evacuated alongside the two crew members.

Van Kerkhove reiterated that the transmission might not be solely from rodents, adding that the WHO is exploring multiple pathways for the virus’s spread. “Our understanding is that while rodents are the usual source, this outbreak could involve interactions between individuals on board,” she explained. The ship’s operator is working closely with health authorities to manage the crisis, ensuring that all symptomatic passengers and crew receive appropriate care.

The WHO’s focus remains on confirming the extent of human-to-human transmission and preventing further spread. “The virus is not highly contagious, but close contact in confined spaces may increase the risk,” Van Kerkhove noted. As the MV Hondius continues its journey, the global health community watches closely, hoping to identify the precise factors contributing to this unusual outbreak. With ongoing testing and monitoring, the situation is being managed with a combination of preventive measures and medical intervention.

Public Health Implications

While the WHO has not raised immediate alarms for the broader population, the incident underscores the need for vigilance in enclosed environments. The virus, which is often associated with rodent exposure, has demonstrated the ability to spread between humans in this case. This development could influence future travel health guidelines, particularly for cruises and other long-distance voyages.

Oceanwide Expeditions has been coordinating efforts to ensure the safety of all onboard. The company has implemented strict protocols, including isolating symptomatic individuals and providing personal protective equipment. As the ship approaches its next port of call, the WHO and local health authorities will continue evaluating the situation to determine the best course of action. The goal is to minimize risks and provide clarity for passengers and crew affected by the outbreak.

With additional reporting by Pumza Fihlani. Are you