MV Hondius Cruise Ship Faces Hantavirus Outbreak Resulting in Three Deaths
A suspected hantavirus outbreak aboard the MV Hondius cruise ship has resulted in the deaths of three passengers, with a fourth passenger currently in intensive care. The outbreak occurred during the ship's journey between Argentina and Cape Verde. The World Health Organization confirmed one case of hantavirus, with five other cases still pending. The first victim, a 70-year-old man, died from hemorrhagic fever on board, followed by his 69-year-old wife who passed away at a hospital in Johannesburg, South Africa. A third fatality was reported on the ship, and a 69-year-old British passenger is receiving intensive care treatment in Johannesburg. The MV Hondius is operated by Oceanwide Expeditions, a Dutch tour company.