Three individuals have lost their lives on a cruise vessel following a suspected outbreak of a virus believed to be linked to rodent waste.
A confirmed case of hantavirus has been identified, with five additional potential infections currently under scrutiny. A British citizen is reportedly in critical condition in intensive care.
The incident occurred on the MV Hondius cruise ship during its journey from Argentina to Cape Verde, as per information provided by the World Health Organization to the BBC.
Hantavirus infections are commonly associated with environmental exposure, such as coming into contact with urine or feces from infected rodents. In rare instances, the virus can be transmitted between individuals, leading to severe respiratory complications.
Foster Mohale, a representative from South Africa’s health ministry, previously informed the BBC of the deaths of at least two individuals. The ship is managed by Oceanwide Expeditions, a Dutch tour company.
Based on the company’s published schedule, the vessel departed from Ushuaia, Argentina, on March 20 and was scheduled to reach Cape Verde on May 4.
South African authorities disclosed that the first person to display symptoms was a 70-year-old passenger who passed away on the ship. Subsequently, his body was transported to the island of Saint Helena.
His 69-year-old wife fell ill during the voyage and was evacuated to South Africa, where she later succumbed in a Johannesburg hospital.
A 69-year-old British male was also airlifted to Johannesburg and is currently undergoing intensive care treatment.
According to Oceanwide Expeditions, the ship is 107.6 meters (353 feet) long and can accommodate up to 170 passengers across 80 cabins.
The WHO stated that it is aiding in the coordination between member states and the ship’s operator, which includes the medical evacuation of two symptomatic passengers, a comprehensive public health risk evaluation, and assistance for those still onboard.