Deadly Hantavirus Outbreak on Cruise Ship Off West Africa: Key Facts and Risks Explained

A luxury cruise ship, the MV Hondius, is currently being held off the coast of West Africa after a suspected outbreak of hantavirus—a rare rodent-borne disease—resulted in three deaths and three infections among passengers. The World Health Organization (WHO) confirmed the outbreak in a post on X (formerly Twitter).

According to the WHO, one case of hantavirus on the ship has been laboratory-confirmed, with five additional suspected cases. Of the six affected individuals, three have died, and one remains in intensive care in South Africa. The Dutch operator of the ship, Oceanwide Expeditions, reported that two crew members still aboard the vessel are experiencing acute respiratory symptoms and require immediate medical attention. As of Monday morning, medics were working to evacuate them.

Meanwhile, 149 passengers remain stranded on the ship as local authorities and medical teams assess the situation. Oceanwide Expeditions stated in an official update:

“Strict precautionary measures are in process on board, including isolation measures, hygiene protocols, and medical monitoring. All passengers have been informed and are being supported.”

Foster Mohale, a spokesman for the National Department of Health in South Africa, urged the public not to panic, noting that only two patients from the cruise ship have entered the country’s borders.

Understanding Hantavirus: Transmission, Symptoms, and Risks

What is hantavirus?

Hantaviruses are a family of viruses that can cause severe illness and, in some cases, death. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) identifies two primary syndromes associated with hantavirus infection:

• Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome (HPS): Primarily found in the Western Hemisphere, HPS affects the lungs.
• Hemorrhagic Fever with Renal Syndrome (HFRS): Common in Europe and Asia, HFRS impacts the kidneys.

As of the end of 2023, the CDC reported 890 total confirmed cases of hantavirus disease in the U.S. since surveillance began in 1993.

How does hantavirus spread?

Hantaviruses primarily spread through contact with rodents. The Mayo Clinic notes that infection most commonly occurs when people inhale airborne particles from rodent urine, droppings, or saliva. While hantavirus can also spread through contact with infected individuals, the WHO states that such cases are extremely rare.

What are the symptoms of hantavirus?

Symptoms vary depending on the syndrome:

• HPS (affects the lungs): Symptoms typically appear within 1 to 8 weeks after exposure and include early-stage signs like fatigue, fever, and muscle aches. As the disease progresses, late-stage symptoms may include coughing and shortness of breath. According to the CDC, 38% of people with respiratory symptoms die from the disease.
• HFRS (affects the kidneys): Symptoms usually develop within 1 to 2 weeks after exposure and may include severe headaches, back and abdominal pain, fever, blurred vision, and nausea. Later-stage symptoms can involve low blood pressure, acute shock, and kidney failure.