CITY, South Africa — A severe acute respiratory illness outbreak aboard the cruise ship MV Hondius in the Atlantic Ocean has resulted in two fatalities, with a third passenger critically ill, according to South African health authorities.
The vessel, operated by Oceanwide Expeditions, was en route from Ushuaia to Praia when the cases were reported.
The ship, carrying approximately 170 passengers and 70 crew members, had recently traversed remote South Atlantic islands including South Georgia and Saint Helena. One of the infected patients, currently in intensive care in Johannesburg, tested positive for hantavirus, a rare and potentially deadly disease typically transmitted through contact with infected rodents.
The first victim, a 70-year-old passenger, succumbed to symptoms during the voyage. His body remains on Saint Helena. His 69-year-old wife later fell ill and was evacuated to Johannesburg, where she passed away in hospital.
The authorities have yet to confirm the couple’s nationality.
A third patient, a 69-year-old British national, is currently receiving intensive care treatment.
The World Health Organization (WHO) is aware of the situation and is coordinating with international partners to conduct investigations and a coordinated public health response. Hantaviruses are primarily transmitted through exposure to rodent urine, droppings, or saliva, and can cause severe respiratory and hemorrhagic conditions. Ship-tracking data indicated that the MV Hondius was near Praia, the capital of Cape Verde, as authorities continued to monitor the situation and assess potential risks to passengers and crew.
South African health authorities, in collaboration with the WHO, are conducting detailed investigations, including laboratory testing and epidemiological studies.
The cruise ship, which includes tourists from various countries, has not yet released a statement regarding the incident or the status of the ship and its passengers. Oceanwide Expeditions, the operator, has not commented on the situation. Officials commented on the matter.
Sequencing of the virus is also underway.
The situation has raised concerns about the potential for further transmission, with officials considering whether the current incubation period will lead to more cases in the coming days and weeks.
The cruise ship remains anchored in Cape Verde, with health authorities closely monitoring the situation and working to ensure the safety of all onboard.
The WHO continues to investigate the circumstances surrounding the outbreak, aiming to prevent any further spread of the virus.
*Additional reporting by ImNews | Sources consulted: 5*
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This original article was produced by the ImNews editorial team
Source: Africanews
Source: AfricaNews
