Watch: Passengers Told Virus-Hit Ship ‘Not Infectious’ After First Death

Watch: Passengers told virus-hit ship ‘not infectious’ after first death – Aboard the MV Hondius, a cruise vessel now stranded near Cape Verde in the western Atlantic, a passenger captured a video showing the captain addressing concerns about the health of a man who had died onboard. The captain, speaking on 12 April, declared that the deceased had succumbed to “natural causes” and that a doctor had confirmed he was “not infectious” at the time. This statement came as part of a broader effort to reassure travelers during the early stages of a hantavirus outbreak, a rare but potentially deadly disease typically transmitted through rodent droppings.

“Initially, we were told the man wasn’t contagious, so there was no urgency to take extra precautions,” said Ruhi Çenet, a Turkish YouTuber who filmed the captain’s announcement. The video, shared with the BBC, highlights the moment when the crew first addressed the incident, though no immediate measures were taken to isolate passengers or clean the affected areas.

As of the latest updates, three confirmed cases and five suspected cases of hantavirus have been identified on the ship. While the disease is uncommon, it can lead to severe respiratory issues and even fatalities. The MV Hondius, which carries around 150 passengers from 23 different countries, remains anchored in the waters off Cape Verde, with its crew and passengers awaiting further guidance from health authorities.

According to Oceanwide Expeditions, the company operating the vessel, the first report of hantavirus emerged “after disembarkation at St Helena,” a remote island in the South Atlantic. The operator stated it “acted as we reported via our press updates” following the identification of the first case on 4 May. However, the delay in notifying passengers about the infectious status of the deceased has raised questions about transparency and the ship’s response to the crisis.

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Meanwhile, the BBC reported from Kenya, where Sebastian Sawe, a Kenyan athlete, made history by becoming the first person to run a marathon in under two hours. His brother, Emily, and his sister, Simion, expressed their pride in a family interview, highlighting the significance of his achievement. “This is a milestone for our country and for the entire running community,” Emily said, as the family celebrated the momentous occasion.

On the African continent, DR Congo has returned to the World Cup for the first time since 1974. The team secured a 1-0 victory in a play-off match against Jamaica, prompting jubilant celebrations in Kinshasa. Fans gathered in the capital to cheer on the squad, marking a proud moment for the nation’s football history.

Geological activity has also made headlines. The Piton de la Fournaise volcano, located on La Réunion Island, erupted and its lava reached the Indian Ocean for the first time in 19 years. The event has drawn attention from scientists and local communities, as it underscores the unpredictable nature of volcanic activity.

Religious observances have coincided in an unusual way this year. Ramadan and Lent, two major global religious periods, have not overlapped since 1993. In Nigeria, couples like Olanrewaju and Kaosara are navigating the dual traditions, finding creative ways to honor both faiths while maintaining their cultural practices.

Technological innovation is also gaining traction in Ethiopia. The country has launched its first unmanned, “smart” police station, where citizens can report crimes using automated touchscreens. This initiative aims to modernize law enforcement and improve response times in urban areas.

Tragic events continue to shape the news. At least 78 bodies have been buried in recent days, while authorities estimate that over 170 people may have been killed in a series of incidents. The exact cause of the deaths remains under investigation, but the human toll has been described as “simply staggering” by BBC correspondent Barbara Plett Usher.

Severe flooding has impacted Mozambique, affecting nearly 700,000 people across the country. The devastation has disrupted communities and infrastructure, with some areas experiencing prolonged waterlogged conditions. In Senegal, fans are celebrating their team’s victory in the Africa Cup of Nations, a major football tournament in the continent.

Political developments in Uganda have also drawn attention. President Yoweri Museveni maintains a commanding lead over his main challenger, Bobi Wine, a pop star who transitioned into politics. The ongoing election campaign has seen logistical challenges, including long queues and frustrations among voters as the country prepares to elect its next leader.

South Africa faces its own environmental challenges. Flooding in the northeastern provinces has forced the closure of the Kruger National Park, a renowned wildlife reserve. The natural disaster has affected both tourism and local communities, with officials working to assess the full extent of the damage.

In Kenya, the legacy of Sebastian Sawe continues to inspire. While he has achieved all the necessary accolades in the world of marathon running, the athlete is now shifting focus to new goals. His journey from a local runner to an international icon has become a symbol of perseverance and excellence in sports.

Residents in the main city of the country have expressed shock after soldiers attempted to overthrow the president. The political unrest has created tension among citizens, with some fearing instability and others rallying behind the current leadership. The situation remains under close watch as authorities work to restore order.

Women in South Africa are increasingly taking part in self-defense training, with a growing number learning to use firearms to protect against gender-based violence. This trend reflects a shift in societal attitudes toward personal safety and empowerment.

Meanwhile, a delivery startup called eWaka is expanding its services across Africa. The platform caters to both fleets of e-bikes and individual riders, aiming to revolutionize the logistics industry. Its success in the region highlights the potential for technology to address transportation and supply chain challenges.

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