Three Dead After Suspected Hantavirus Outbreak on Cruise Ship
Three people have died and at least three others have fallen ill in a suspected hantavirus outbreak on a cruise ship traveling across the Atlantic Ocean, according to the World Health Organization. One case has been confirmed, and health authorities are investigating the source of the outbreak and potential exposures. The incident has raised concerns about disease transmission in confined spaces like cruise ships and the challenges of managing health emergencies at sea.
- ▪The World Health Organization confirmed one hantavirus infection and is investigating a cluster of cases on a cruise ship.
- ▪Two passengers died after being transferred to a hospital in South Africa, and a third died after showing symptoms consistent with hantavirus.
- ▪The ship, reportedly the MV Hondius, was sailing from Argentina to Cape Verde and is now docked in Praia, the capital of Cape Verde.
- ▪Hantavirus is typically transmitted through contact with infected rodent urine or feces, though limited person-to-person transmission has been documented.
- ▪South African and Cape Verdean health officials are working with the cruise operator to monitor passengers and assess risks.
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By Hollie SilvermanDeputy Weekend EditorShareNewsweek is a Trust Project memberSee more of our trusted coverage when you search.Prefer Newsweek on Googleto see more of our trusted coverage when you search.Three people have died and at least three others have fallen ill in what the World Health Organization (WHO) told the Associated Press Sunday is a suspected hantavirus outbreak aboard a cruise ship traveling across the Atlantic Ocean.WHO said one infection has already been confirmed and a broader investigation is underway as health authorities race to contain the cluster.Hantavirus infections are rare but can be severe, often leading to acute respiratory distress and, in some cases, death.
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