Health authorities are continuing to monitor a developing medical situation aboard the MV Hondius after multiple illnesses and deaths were reported during a voyage from Argentina to West Africa. The World Health Organization has said the suspected outbreak presents a low risk to the wider public, even as investigations and evacuation efforts intensify.
The regional director of the World Health Organization in Europe, Hans Kluge, said there is no reason for public alarm or travel restrictions. He noted that infections linked to Hantavirus are uncommon and usually occur after exposure to infected rodents. He added that, while the situation on board is being closely assessed, the risk beyond the ship remains limited.
The cruise operator, Oceanwide Expeditions, confirmed that three passengers have died during the voyage, with two deaths occurring onboard and one after a passenger was disembarked. One additional passenger is currently in intensive care in Johannesburg, while two others are reported to require urgent medical attention.
Dutch authorities are now coordinating efforts to repatriate two sick passengers currently on the vessel. The operator said the plan, led by Dutch officials, would involve transferring the individuals from Cape Verde to the Netherlands for treatment, pending approval from local authorities.
A spokesperson for the Dutch foreign ministry said discussions are ongoing to determine whether a medical evacuation can be carried out safely. If approved, the evacuation would be coordinated by the ministry in cooperation with health agencies and international partners.
At present, the ship remains anchored off the coast of Cape Verde. Local medical teams have boarded the vessel to assess the condition of those affected, but permission to disembark passengers has not yet been granted. Authorities are continuing to evaluate the situation in consultation with maritime and health officials.
Oceanwide Expeditions said all disembarkation procedures and medical screenings must be coordinated with local health authorities. It confirmed that it is working closely with officials to ensure appropriate care and containment measures are in place.
While one case of hantavirus has been confirmed among passengers in intensive care, it remains unclear whether the virus is responsible for the reported deaths or the other suspected cases. The operator said investigations are ongoing to determine any possible link between the illnesses.
The World Health Organization has reported one confirmed infection and five additional suspected cases. It stressed that while rare, hantavirus can in some instances lead to severe respiratory illness, requiring careful monitoring and medical support.
