Hantavirus Outbreak on Cruise Ship Raises Concerns

May 8, 2026

84 min

May 8, 2026 04:30

Hantavirus: Symptoms, spread, treatment, prevention — the story so far

## Recent Outbreak

A Dutch cruise ship, MV Hondius, is currently anchored off Cape Verde following a hantavirus outbreak. The virus has resulted in three fatalities among the 147 passengers and crew. The ship, which travels Antarctic routes, poses risks of rodent exposure from ports or wildlife.

## Understanding Hantavirus

Hantaviruses belong to the Bunyavirales order and can cause severe respiratory diseases. The virus is primarily transmitted through contact with infected rodents' urine, feces, or saliva. The 'Andes' strain, involved in this outbreak, is rare and typically found in parts of South America.

## Symptoms and Transmission

Initial symptoms resemble the flu, including fatigue, fever, and muscle aches, appearing 1-8 weeks after exposure. Advanced symptoms include coughing and shortness of breath due to fluid in the lungs. While most hantaviruses do not spread between humans, the Andes strain can occasionally transmit through close contact.

## Risk and Prevention

The World Health Organization (WHO) considers the global risk of a widespread Andes strain outbreak to be low. Preventive measures include sealing homes against rodents, using traps, and maintaining hygiene. On ships, distancing, masks, and hand hygiene are recommended.

## Treatment Options

There is no specific antiviral treatment for hantavirus pulmonary syndrome (HPS). Supportive care, such as oxygen and ventilation, is crucial. Ribavirin, an antiviral drug, may help with certain kidney-related hantavirus strains but is not effective for lung involvement.

## Timeline of Events

The MV Hondius departed from Ushuaia, Argentina, on April 1, 2026. The first death occurred on April 11, followed by medical evacuations and additional fatalities. The ship reached Cape Verde on May 3, with plans to continue to the Canary Islands for further medical response and investigation.

Read the full story at the source

What you need to know to get Emirates ID?

Leave your details and get a guide as a gift to avoid mistakes

Article contents