MV Hondius Hantavirus Outbreak
Overview
An outbreak of the rare hantavirus has occurred on the Dutch expedition vessel MV Hondius, with 149 people aboard, including two Indian crew members, stranded off Cape Verde in the Atlantic.
Current Situation
- The outbreak has resulted in three passenger deaths and several other infections.
- Infected passengers have been evacuated for medical treatment.
- The two Indian crew members’ health status is presently undisclosed.
- The passengers and crew hail from 23 countries, including the UK, US, Germany, and Spain.
- The vessel is moving towards Tenerife in the Canary Islands, with an expected arrival in 3–4 days.
Management and Response
- The outbreak is under control, with affected individuals receiving medical care.
- No symptomatic individuals remain on board at the moment.
- Authorities, including the World Health Organization and the RIVM, are overseeing quarantine and screening measures.
Details of the Outbreak
- The virus strain linked to the outbreak is believed to be the Andes virus.
- Hantavirus is generally transmitted through contact with infected rodents' urine, saliva, or excreta.
- The Andes virus can, in rare cases, spread between humans via close contact.
Background
The MV Hondius embarked from Argentina on an expedition cruise towards the Canary Islands when the outbreak took place.
