The World Health Organization (WHO) has said that more cases of hantavirus may appear following an outbreak that has already resulted in the deaths of three cruise ship passengers. However, it expects the situation to remain contained if proper health measures are followed.
A further infected passenger from the MV Hondius was transported to Europe as the vessel continued toward Spain’s Canary Islands. Health authorities are actively working to track and contain the spread of the virus, including a rare strain that can spread between humans.
International concern grew after three fatalities were confirmed aboard the ship. Despite this, health experts have emphasized that the risk of a widespread global outbreak is considered low, as the virus is less transmissible than COVID-19.
The WHO stated that a total of five confirmed and three suspected cases have been reported so far, including the deaths. Officials noted that due to the virus’s incubation period—up to six weeks—additional cases could still emerge.
A new confirmed case was later reported in Europe, while several countries, including the United Kingdom, Germany, the Netherlands, Switzerland, and South Africa, are treating or isolating affected individuals.
Health experts believe a passenger likely became infected before boarding the ship in Argentina and may have transmitted the virus to others during the voyage. Investigations are ongoing in multiple countries, including efforts to test rodents in Ushuaia, where the journey began.
The cruise operator confirmed that passengers who showed symptoms have already been isolated or evacuated, and no current cases are showing symptoms on board as the ship continues its route toward Tenerife.
The hantavirus is a rare illness typically spread by rodents and can lead to severe respiratory and cardiac complications. There is currently no vaccine or specific treatment available.
Authorities continue to trace all passengers and crew who have been in contact with the vessel since late March, while monitoring remains in place across several countries.