A worldwide search is currently underway to trace passengers who disembarked from the MV Hondius after a deadly hantavirus outbreak struck the luxury cruise ship. The vessel was travelling from Ushuaia, Argentina, to Cape Verde, Africa, when the virus, carried by rats, led to three deaths and infected several others.
This serious outbreak has prompted an urgent international response to prevent further spread and to protect the more than 20 British nationals onboard, who may face quarantine periods of up to eight weeks.
How Hantavirus Spreads
Hantavirus is primarily found in rodents and transmits to humans through contact with rodent urine, faeces, or saliva, which can become airborne. Human infection can also occur through bites, scratches, or handling contaminated food. The strain responsible for this outbreak is believed to originate from the long-tailed pygmy rice rat, a species common in the affected region.
Recognising Symptoms
Symptoms generally appear two to four weeks after exposure and often resemble flu, including fever, body aches, nausea, and vomiting. Some cases remain mild or asymptomatic, making early detection difficult. More serious infections may develop into hantavirus pulmonary syndrome (HPS), which can cause respiratory failure, or haemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome (HFRS), leading to kidney failure and internal bleeding.
Limited Human-to-human Transmission
Experts emphasise that hantavirus is not easily transmitted between people. Infection usually requires close, prolonged contact such as living in the same room. Casual contact, including passing someone in communal areas or dining queues, poses a very low risk of transmission.
Global Response And Safety Measures
Efforts to repatriate passengers are ongoing. The World Health Organisation has reassured the public that this outbreak is not comparable to the Covid pandemic. Strict isolation measures, hygiene protocols, and medical monitoring remain in place for those still onboard the MV Hondius. Travel experts advise against cancelling holidays solely due to the virus but recommend vigilance and adherence to safety guidelines.
Treatment And Risks
Currently, there is no licensed antiviral treatment for hantavirus, but supportive care, including oxygen therapy, is available. Antiviral medications such as ribavirin are used on a compassionate basis, although evidence of their effectiveness is limited. Older individuals and those with underlying health conditions are at higher risk of developing severe disease.
Originally published by UKNIP.
