Three fatalities reported as a suspected hantavirus outbreak affects a cruise ship, with a British passenger in intensive care
Three individuals have died following a suspected hantavirus outbreak on a cruise ship, while a British passenger is currently in intensive care at a hospital in Johannesburg.
A British cruise ship passenger is currently in intensive care following the deaths of three individuals in a suspected hantavirus outbreak aboard a vessel en route from Argentina to Cape Verde.
The BBC received information from the World Health Organization regarding three fatalities linked to the suspected outbreak aboard the MV Hondius cruise ship.
A 70-year-old man became unwell during the journey and passed away after the ship reached St. Helena Island, as reported by a South African health official. His remains are currently awaiting repatriation to the Netherlands.
The 69-year-old wife of the man also fell ill. She subsequently passed away in a hospital in Johannesburg. Officials in South Africa confirmed that the couple were nationals of the Netherlands.
A 69-year-old British national is the sole confirmed case, currently undergoing treatment in intensive care in Johannesburg.
Two crew members on board the vessel also require urgent medical assistance.
The Dutch authorities are coordinating the return of two individuals exhibiting symptoms. There are also arrangements to bring back the body of another individual who passed away and is still on the ship.
“Hantavirus” refers to a collection of viruses that are transmitted by rodents. Humans primarily acquire it by inhaling airborne particles that originate from dried rodent droppings.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention states that infections happen when the virus becomes airborne from rodent urine, droppings, or saliva. In uncommon instances, it may be transmitted via bites or scratches from rodents.
There is no designated treatment for hantavirus infections. Medical care emphasizes the management of symptoms, which may involve oxygen therapy, ventilation support, antiviral medication, and dialysis in more severe instances.
Patients exhibiting severe symptoms may necessitate admission to intensive care units, with some potentially requiring intubation.
