The World Health Organization (WHO) has issued a critical update regarding a hantavirus outbreak aboard the cruise ship Hondius, confirming that seven cases have been reported to date. Despite the severity of the infections, health officials emphasize that the overall risk to the general public remains low.
Case Details and Symptoms
According to reports received by the WHO on May 2, passengers aboard the Hondius began experiencing severe acute respiratory illnesses. As of May 4, the tally stands at seven cases, comprising two laboratory-confirmed hantavirus infections and five suspected cases. Tragically, three individuals have died, one remains in critical condition, and three others are experiencing mild symptoms.
The onset of illness occurred between April 6 and April 28. Patients initially presented with fever and gastrointestinal discomfort, which in several instances rapidly progressed to pneumonia, acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), and shock.
Containment and Response Measures
Maria Van Kerkhove, the WHO's acting director for epidemic and pandemic preparedness and prevention, stated on May 4 that the Hondius is currently anchored near Cape Verde. To mitigate the risk of further infection, passengers have been instructed to remain in their cabins while disinfection and containment protocols are carried out.
Medical teams from Cape Verde are currently providing essential support to the passengers and crew. Simultaneously, the WHO is coordinating with the governments of Cape Verde and the Netherlands, along with the cruise operator, Oceanwide Expeditions—a Netherlands-based polar expedition company—to facilitate the transfer of patients to the Netherlands for specialized treatment.
Understanding the Risk
WHO officials are conducting extensive epidemiological investigations to identify the exact source of the infection and are continuing to monitor for new cases through rigorous laboratory testing.
Van Kerkhove clarified that hantaviruses are typically carried by rodents and are transmitted to humans through contact with infected rodents or their urine, droppings, or saliva. She highlighted that human-to-human transmission is rare, though limited instances have been noted in previous outbreaks. Based on these biological characteristics and current data, the WHO maintains that the risk to the broader public is low.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
