Passenger onboard a cruise ship involved in a suspected hantavirus outbreak has appealed emotionally, expressing the desire for safety, clarity, and a safe return home. The MV Hondius vessel has witnessed the deaths of three individuals, a Dutch couple, and a German national, believed to be linked to the rare rodent-borne virus, as reported by the World Health Organization (WHO). Oceanwide Expeditions, the cruise operator, has confirmed the nationalities of the deceased but stated that the cause of death remains undetermined.
Additionally, three others, including a British passenger and two British and Dutch crew members, have fallen ill. The British passenger, aged 69, is currently in intensive care in a Johannesburg hospital, while the crew members are experiencing acute respiratory symptoms, with one in mild condition and the other severe. Oceanwide Expeditions mentioned that hantavirus has been confirmed only in the case of the British passenger.
The vessel, with approximately 150 individuals onboard, is currently anchored near Cape Verde, an island nation off the west coast of Africa, where local authorities are prohibiting disembarkation.
Jake Rosmarin, a US travel blogger, shared a tearful video on Instagram from the ship, addressing the challenges faced by the passengers and emphasizing the need for safety, clarity, and a swift return home. He highlighted the human aspect of the situation and appealed for compassion and understanding.
The MV Hondius, flagged in the Netherlands, embarked on its journey around three weeks ago from Argentina, with planned stops in Antarctica, the Falkland Islands, and other destinations, before heading towards Spain’s Canary Islands, according to South Africa’s Department of Health. Reports from South African authorities indicated that the first individual to show symptoms was a 70-year-old man who passed away on the ship. His wife, aged 69, subsequently fell ill and was evacuated to South Africa, where she also succumbed to the illness. The third deceased individual is the German national.
Hantavirus transmission primarily occurs through contact with infected rodents’ urine, droppings, or saliva, particularly when contaminated particles are inhaled. The disease is similar to the one that claimed the life of Betsy Arakawa, Gene Hackman’s wife, in New Mexico last year.
The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention states that hantaviruses can lead to two severe syndromes: hantavirus pulmonary syndrome affecting the lungs and haemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome affecting the kidneys. Though uncommon, the WHO acknowledges that hantavirus infections can be transmitted between individuals in certain cases. While no specific treatment exists, prompt medical intervention can enhance survival rates.
The WHO is closely monitoring and supporting the public health situation related to the cruise vessel sailing in the Atlantic Ocean. Investigations, including further laboratory testing and epidemiological inquiries, are ongoing, with medical care and assistance being provided to passengers and crew members. Virus sequencing is also underway to better understand the situation.
