Cape Verde Hantavirus Outbreak Claims Three Lives on MV Hondius

Three passengers have died from a suspected hantavirus outbreak on the MV Hondius, a cruise ship traveling from Argentina to Cape Verde. The outbreak occurred on May 3, 2026, while the ship was sailing in the Atlantic Ocean.

The situation escalated rapidly after a 70-year-old passenger developed symptoms and subsequently died onboard. His wife, aged 69, also fell ill and was evacuated to South Africa, where she later died. Currently, one confirmed case of hantavirus infection exists, along with five additional suspected cases.

Key statistics:

• Three deaths reported due to the outbreak.
• One confirmed hantavirus case and five suspected cases.
• The first deceased passenger was 70 years old; his wife was 69.
• A British national, also aged 69, is in intensive care in South Africa.
• The MV Hondius has a passenger capacity of approximately 170 and carries 70 crew members.

Hantavirus infections typically arise from exposure to the feces or urine of infected rodents. The World Health Organization (WHO) is currently involved in coordinating responses between national authorities and the ship’s operators. Discussions are ongoing regarding whether two additional sick passengers should be placed in isolation at a hospital in Cape Verde.

The nationalities of the deceased passengers have not been established yet. This outbreak adds to concerns surrounding respiratory illnesses linked to viral infections, particularly as travel resumes globally.

As health officials respond to this crisis, they emphasize the importance of monitoring and rapid response in preventing further spread of such infectious diseases.