The World Health Organization suspects rare human-to-human transmission of hantavirus may have occurred among close contacts on the MV Hondius cruise ship. A cluster of hantavirus infections was reported among individuals traveling on the vessel.
As of May 4, 2026, seven cases of hantavirus infection have been identified, including two laboratory-confirmed and five suspected cases. Three fatalities have been recorded among the infected individuals.
Symptom onset ranged from April 6 to April 28, 2026, characterized by fever and gastrointestinal symptoms. The index case died on April 11, 2026, while still on board the ship.
Authorities from multiple countries have initiated a coordinated international response. This includes case investigation and medical evacuation of affected individuals.
Key statistics:
- A total of seven cases of hantavirus infection identified.
- Three fatalities recorded among infected individuals.
- One patient remains in critical condition under medical care in South Africa.
The outbreak appears confined to the cruise ship, with no evidence of transmission within African countries. Hantaviruses are primarily transmitted through contact with infected rodent excreta, saliva, or urine.
Still, Maria Van Kerkhove from WHO stated, “We do believe that there may be some human-to-human transmission that’s happening among the really close contacts.” A British crew member and a Dutch colleague are being medically evacuated due to respiratory symptoms.
The MV Hondius departed Ushuaia, Argentina, on March 20, 2026, for the Canary Islands via Cabo Verde. The exact source and mode of exposure for the hantavirus infections remain unclear. The potential for ongoing transmission among crew members is still to be confirmed.