WHO Confirms Six Hantavirus Cases on Cruise Ship; US Evacuates Citizens

The World Health Organization has confirmed six laboratory cases of hantavirus infection, specifically the Andes virus strain, among eight suspected cases aboard the MV Hondius cruise ship. While the WHO deems the global risk to be low, it acknowledges a moderate risk to those on the ship. This outbreak has prompted international concern, particularly due to the Andes virus's potential for human-to-human transmission.

“

As of 8 May, a total of eight cases, including three deaths (case fatality ratio 38%), have been reported. Six cases have been laboratory-confirmed as hantavirus infections, with all identified as Andes virus (ANDV).

The situation has led to coordinated efforts for the repatriation and quarantine of affected individuals. The United States is arranging a special evacuation flight for its citizens on the MV Hondius, which is en route to Tenerife in Spain's Canary Islands. Upon arrival in the US, these passengers will be transported to a national quarantine facility at the University of Nebraska Medical Center for monitoring.

“

WHO assesses the risk to the global population posed by this event as low and will continue to monitor the epidemiological situation and update the risk assessment.

Tragically, three passengers—a Dutch couple and a German woman—have died from the virus, while others have fallen ill. The hantavirus, typically spread through rodents, is now under intense scrutiny due to the confirmed Andes virus strain. The ship's operator reported 17 Americans were on board, though the exact number of US passengers requiring repatriation was not immediately specified by the State Department. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has assured the public that the risk to the American population remains extremely low.

“

The risk for passengers and crew on the ship is considered moderate.