The World Health Organization says there is no cause for alarm after suspected hantavirus infections sickened six people aboard a cruise ship in the Atlantic Ocean, with three deaths reported.
The MV Hondius, an expedition vessel operated by Netherlands-based Oceanwide Expeditions, was carrying about 150 passengers when the outbreak occurred. The ship had left Argentina and made stops in Antarctica before heading toward Cape Verde, off the West African coast.
Hans Kluge, WHO Regional Director for Europe, said the organisation was actively supporting response efforts but urged people to stay calm. "The risk to the wider public remains low. There is no need for panic or travel restrictions," he said.
Hantavirus infections are rare and spread mainly through contact with infected rodents, Kluge explained. Human-to-human transmission is uncommon, which means the virus is unlikely to spread among the general population on land.
Laboratory tests have confirmed hantavirus infection in at least one of the six reported cases. The Dutch Foreign Ministry confirmed that two Dutch nationals died on board the vessel, though it did not immediately disclose details about the deaths. A third death was also reported, but its nationality has not been clarified.
The WHO is working with affected countries to ensure proper medical care for the sick, coordinate evacuation procedures, and investigate how the virus got on the ship. Health officials are trying to determine the source of the outbreak and understand its full extent.
Hantavirus typically enters ships through contaminated food supplies or rodent droppings in cargo. The virus can spread to humans when they inhale particles from infected rodent waste or handle contaminated materials without protection.
The vessel remains under observation as investigations continue. The WHO said affected countries are being supported with technical guidance and epidemiological assistance.
