A360
Key Takeaways✦ Atlas AI
01
Low public risk from hantavirus.
02
Three deaths, three illnesses on cruise.
03
Hantavirus not easily transmitted.
Atlas AI
The World Health Organization (WHO) said on Monday, May 4, that the risk to the public is low after a suspected hantavirus outbreak on a cruise ship in the Atlantic.
The assessment follows the deaths of three people and illness in three others aboard the MV Hondius, a polar expedition vessel operated by Netherlands-based Oceanwide Expeditions, which was off Cape Verde.
The ship left Argentina about three weeks ago with around 150 passengers and stopped in the Antarctic and other locations on its way to Cape Verde, according to media reports.
WHO regional director for Europe Hans Kluge said there is no need for panic or travel restrictions. He added that the WHO is supporting the response and working with the countries involved on medical care, evacuations, investigations and a public health risk assessment.
Kluge said hantavirus infections are uncommon and usually linked to exposure to infected rodents. While severe in some cases, the virus is not easily transmitted between people.
The WHO said laboratory tests have confirmed hantavirus in one of the six affected individuals. It also said one of the sick passengers was in intensive care in South Africa.
