Hnatavirus on cruise ship. Photo: Shutterstock The World Health Organization (WHO) is "aware of and supporting a public health event involving a cruise vessel sailing in the Atlantic Ocean" following one confirmed case of hantavirus infection and five suspected cases.
"Of the six affected individuals, three have died and one is currently in intensive care in South Africa. Detailed investigations are ongoing, including further laboratory testing, and epidemiological investigations," informed the WHO.
Passengers and crew members are receiving the needed "medical care and support" while virus sequencing is underway.
Hantavirus infections are usually rare and connected to exposure to infected rodents through their urine or faeces. They may spread between people, possibly leading to severe respiratory illness, which requires "patient monitoring, support, and response."
WHO has also announced it is working to facilitate coordination between Member States and the operators of the ship, identified as Oceanwide Expeditions, the operator of the MV Hondius ship, now anchored in Praia, Cape Verde's capital, to allow the "medical evacuation of two symptomatic passengers, as well as full public health risk assessment and support to the remaining passengers on board."
"WHO is grateful for the rapid actions and coordination. We have informed our National Focal Points according to the International Health Regulations and a Disease Outbreak News for the public will be issued."