Tuesday, 02 January 2024 12:17 GMT

WHO Reports Deaths in Suspected Hantavirus Outbreak on Cruise Ship


(MENAFN) The World Health Organization (WHO) says three people die after a suspected hantavirus outbreak occurs on a Netherlands-based cruise ship in the Atlantic, according to reports.

The agency states that six people are affected in total, with three fatalities and one patient currently in intensive care in South Africa.

“Of the six affected individuals, three have died and one is currently in intensive care in South Africa,” the agency said.

Cruise operator Oceanwide Expeditions confirms the deaths and reports that two additional crew members require urgent medical treatment.

The WHO says investigations are ongoing, including laboratory testing and epidemiological analysis, while medical care is provided to those on board.

“Sequencing of the virus is also ongoing,” it said.

Authorities in Cape Verde have not yet approved the disembarkation of passengers needing medical assistance from the MV Hondius, although local health officials have already assessed some symptomatic cases.

Health experts note that hantavirus is typically linked to exposure to infected rodents and can, in rare cases, spread between people, potentially causing severe respiratory illness, according to reports.

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