Three individuals have passed away, and a British citizen is currently battling for his life following a suspected hantavirus outbreak on a cruise vessel traveling from Argentina to Cape Verde.
An elderly man, aged 70, fell ill aboard the MV Hondius and tragically died upon arrival at St Helena Island, with his body awaiting repatriation to the Netherlands. His 69-year-old wife also fell ill and eventually passed away in a Johannesburg hospital in South Africa. Authorities have revealed that the deceased couple were of Dutch origin. Information about the third deceased person has not been disclosed yet.
A 69-year-old British man is currently in critical condition in intensive care in Johannesburg. Hantavirus, a lethal virus, is contracted through the inhalation of contaminated rodent urine, droppings, or saliva.
The Foreign Office of the United Kingdom has pledged to provide assistance to any British nationals affected by the suspected hantavirus outbreak on the MV Hondius cruise ship. A spokesperson affirmed readiness to aid British citizens and mentioned ongoing communication with the cruise company and local authorities.
Hantavirus infections typically occur through exposure to infected rodent waste. In rare instances, the virus can spread between individuals, resulting in severe respiratory complications. Symptoms, initially resembling flu-like signs, include high fever, chills, muscle pain, intense headaches, nausea, abdominal issues, and a persistent dry cough.
Breathing difficulties can rapidly escalate, with infected individuals at risk of severe respiratory failure.
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A total of three fatalities have been reported in connection with a suspected hantavirus outbreak on the MV Hondius cruise ship.