The Health Ministry of Argentina has reported a significant increase in Hantavirus cases since June 2025. On a Dutch ship named MV Hondius off the coast of Cape Verde, approximately 150 passengers are currently stranded, with many isolating themselves in cabins to avoid the virus. Tragically, three passengers have already succumbed to the virus, while eight others are battling serious illness.
The UK Health Security Agency has confirmed that two individuals who were on the cruise have returned to the UK and are self-isolating as a precaution, despite showing no symptoms. Argentina, the country from which the cruise to Antarctica embarked, is known to have the highest incidence of Hantavirus in Latin America, as per the World Health Organization.
In light of these developments, Hugo Pizzi, an Argentine infectious disease specialist, highlighted the impact of climate change on the spread of diseases like Hantavirus in Argentina. The Argentine Health Ministry disclosed that there have been 101 cases of Hantavirus infections since June 2025, nearly double the number recorded during the same period the previous year.
The Ministry issued an alert regarding fatal outbreaks, including in Buenos Aires province, where rural hospitals were ill-equipped to handle the situation. Residents, like Daisy Morinigo and David Delgado, were taken by surprise when their son fell ill with Hantavirus, leading to his untimely death despite medical efforts.
Oceanwide Expeditions, the operator of MV Hondius, provided updates on the situation, confirming the transfer of affected individuals to the Netherlands for medical care. The ship is en route to the Canary Islands with additional medical staff onboard to ensure the well-being of passengers. The company is working closely with authorities on quarantine and screening procedures, emphasizing the importance of medical advice in determining the next steps for passengers.
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