Three Passengers Die from Hantavirus on Cruise Ship

Johannesburg. Three passengers have died due to the rare Hantavirus, spread by rodents, on a luxury cruise ship traveling in the Atlantic Ocean. 

The fatal virus infection was detected on the ship named 'MV Hondius', which departed from Ushuaia, Argentina, for Cape Verde.

According to a statement released by the World Health Organization (WHO) on Sunday, out of six people on board suspected of infection, one has been confirmed with the virus. Three of the infected have died, while one is undergoing treatment in the intensive care unit (ICU) of a hospital in Johannesburg, South Africa. 

South African Ministry of Health spokesperson Foster Mohale confirmed that the Hantavirus tested positive in the patient undergoing treatment in the ICU. Among the deceased are a couple. Initially, a 70-year-old man showed symptoms and died on board the ship. His body is currently kept on the British territory of St. Helena Island. 

His 69-year-old wife was taken to South Africa for treatment, but she also passed away at the hospital. Another patient undergoing treatment in the ICU is said to be a 69-year-old British citizen.

Hantavirus spreads to humans through rodent droppings, urine, or saliva. It causes severe respiratory problems and fever with bleeding, which can be fatal if not treated promptly.

The health of other passengers and crew members on board is currently being tested. The WHO is preparing to rescue two other passengers showing symptoms in coordination with various countries. Health officials have begun a detailed investigation into the presence of rodents on the ship and the source of the virus.