Killer virus strikes Atlantic cruise ship near Cape Verde

An outbreak of a severe respiratory illness aboard a cruise ship in the Atlantic Ocean has left three passengers dead and at least three others infected, with one case now confirmed as hantavirus, reports Africa News with agencies on May 4th.

The outbreak occurred on the MV Hondius, a vessel operated by Oceanwide Expeditions, during a voyage from Ushuaia, Argentina, to Praia, Cape Verde. The World Health Organisation (WHO) and South Africa’s Department of Health confirmed they are monitoring the situation and coordinating a response.

Among the dead are an elderly married couple who fell ill during the journey. The 70-year-old husband died on board, with his body remaining on the island of Saint Helena. His 69-year-old wife was later evacuated to Johannesburg, where she died in hospital. A third passenger, a 69-year-old British man, is currently in intensive care in the same city.

South African officials confirmed that at least one patient tested positive for hantavirus, a rare but potentially fatal disease typically transmitted through contact with infected rodent droppings, urine, or saliva.

The WHO said investigations are ongoing, adding that a “coordinated public health response” is underway, though further details have not yet been released. Authorities are working to determine how the virus may have spread aboard the ship and whether additional passengers or crew are at risk.

Hantavirus infections can lead to severe respiratory illness and, in some cases, hemorrhagic fever, according to the US Centres for Disease Control and Prevention. While cases are rare, the disease carries a high mortality rate if not treated promptly.

The MV Hondius, which carries around 170 passengers and 70 crew members, had recently visited remote South Atlantic islands, including South Georgia and Saint Helena. Ship-tracking data shows the vessel is currently near Praia as officials continue to assess the situation.

Health authorities have not yet confirmed the nationalities of all those affected and are continuing efforts to contain the outbreak and trace possible sources of infection.

Africa News with agencies, Maghrebi.org