Three people cruising on the MV Hondius in the Atlantic Ocean have died. Hantavirus has been confirmed in one individual from the U.K. who is currently hospitalized in Johannesburg, South Africa. Hantavirus is a rare infection caused by rodent droppings. It typically has flu-like symptoms, but patients can develop respiratory issues as it progresses, and it can also lead to heart failure.
The ship, operated by Oceanwide Expeditions, set sail three weeks ago from southern Argentina and stopped in Antarctica, the Falkland Islands, Nightingale Island, and other locations. A 70-year-old Dutch national became unwell first and died on April 11. When the ship docked at St. Helena on April 24, his body was removed, and his 69-year-old wife also disembarked. The cause of death was not determined. While returning to the Netherlands, his wife also became ill and died. She was also Dutch.
The third person, a German national, died on board Saturday. Two other people are currently unwell on the ship. However, the company has stated that hantavirus has not been confirmed in these two cases.
The ship is currently off the coast of Cape Verde with 149 people of different nationalities on board.
