A British crew member aboard a luxury cruise ship in the Atlantic Ocean is set to be medically evacuated following a suspected hantavirus outbreak, according to official sources.
The evacuation involves the crew member and a Dutch colleague, with Dutch authorities coordinating the effort. Both individuals have shown respiratory symptoms and require “urgent medical care,” as stated by the tour operator Oceanwide Expeditions.
Dr. Maria Van Kerkhove from the World Health Organization (WHO) emphasized that the organization’s “highest priority” is to ensure the safe medical evacuation of these two crew members to provide them with the necessary healthcare.
Additionally, a British passenger exhibiting symptoms of hantavirus is reportedly in stable condition. This passenger was evacuated to Johannesburg on April 27 and is currently receiving intensive care.
UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced that the government is developing “plans in place” for the repatriation of British nationals who remain on the Dutch-flagged cruise ship.
Starmer expressed his concern via a post on X, stating, “My thoughts are with those affected by the hantavirus outbreak onboard the MV Hondius. We are collaborating closely with international partners to assist British nationals on board and are making arrangements for their safe onward travel.”
To date, seven suspected cases of hantavirus have been reported, including three fatalities, with two cases confirmed as hantavirus. Van Kerkhove noted, “Currently, seven individuals among the 147 passengers and crew have reported illness, and unfortunately, three have died.” She provided updates on the patients, indicating that one is improving in South Africa, while two others remain on the ship, preparing for evacuation to the Netherlands.
Another suspected case has emerged, but this individual is reportedly asymptomatic and in good condition. Van Kerkhove added that there are no additional symptomatic individuals on board. However, as a precautionary measure, passengers have been instructed to stay in their cabins while disinfection and public health protocols are implemented.
The cruise ship is carrying 19 British passengers and four British crew members and was traveling from Argentina to Cape Verde.
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A UK government representative stated, “We are collaborating with the Dutch government and local authorities to plan medical evacuations for sick passengers, including one British national.” Medical teams from Cape Verde are currently assisting the ship, which is expected to proceed to the Canary Islands for further investigation and a comprehensive disinfection process. The WHO has assessed the risk to the global population as low.
Tragically, a Dutch passenger died on board the ship on April 11, followed by his wife on April 27, who later tested positive for a variant of hantavirus. Additionally, a German passenger passed away on May 2, though the cause of death has not been confirmed.
Oceanwide Expeditions reported that the atmosphere on the ship remains calm, with passengers generally composed. The company is committed to providing clarity and reassurance to guests while expediting their disembarkation and medical evaluations.
Hantavirus infections, primarily transmitted through the urine or feces of infected rodents, can lead to severe respiratory illnesses and may be fatal. Although rare, the WHO notes that human-to-human transmission can occur in certain circumstances.
There is currently no specific treatment or cure for hantavirus, but early medical intervention significantly improves the chances of survival for patients.
