Three people have lost their lives, and at least five cases of infection are still under suspicion after the incident on the cruise ship MV Hondius, which was sailing from Argentina to Cape Verde. The ship, which sails under the Dutch flag, is currently the focus of an international investigation that is trying to determine the exact extent and source of the infection.
According to available information, it is an infection with hantavirus, a rare but potentially very dangerous virus that is most often transmitted by contact with the urine, feces or saliva of infected rodents. Although such cases are extremely rare, experts warn that limited transmission between people is also possible, which further increases concern about the development of severe respiratory complications.
The World Health Organization has confirmed that three people have died, while one infected person is in intensive care in South Africa. In total, one case has been laboratory confirmed so far, while another five people are suspected of infection.
Extensive laboratory testing and epidemiological research, including genetic sequencing of the virus, are underway to more precisely determine the circumstances of the spread of the infection. Passengers and crew members are provided with medical care, and WHO is coordinating activities between countries and ship operators, including the organization of medical evacuation for two passengers with symptoms.
Hantaviruses are known to cause two serious clinical syndromes. Hantavirus pulmonary syndrome affects the lungs and can rapidly progress to a life-threatening condition. Symptoms usually appear between one and eight weeks after exposure and include fatigue, fever and muscle aches, particularly in the thighs, back and shoulders.
Another form of the disease, hemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome, affects the kidneys and can also be fatal. Symptoms develop suddenly, usually within two weeks of exposure, and are manifested through severe headaches, abdominal and back pain, fever, nausea and visual disturbances.
Health authorities continue to monitor the situation and assess the potential risk to public health, while measures are being taken to protect the remaining passengers and crew on board.
