Three passengers have died from a suspected hantavirus outbreak on the MV Hondius cruise ship in the Atlantic Ocean, which was traveling from Argentina to Cape Verde.
South Africa's National Department of Health confirmed the tragic news, highlighting that one confirmed case of hantavirus and five suspected cases are under investigation.
The WHO stated: "detailed investigations into the suspected hantavirus cases are ongoing, including further laboratory testing."
The deceased included a 70-year-old man whose symptoms first developed during the voyage; he died on the ship and his body is currently on the island of Saint Helena.
His 69-year-old wife also fell ill and subsequently died in a Johannesburg hospital after being evacuated.
One other passenger remains in intensive care in South Africa, with a confirmed positive test for hantavirus, according to health officials.
Hantavirus, a rare disease usually transmitted from rodents, continues to pose a significant health threat, impacting the remaining passengers who are being monitored closely.
According to the WHO, coordination is underway for a proper response by national authorities and the ship's operators to manage the situation effectively.
Dutch authorities are also collaborating to ensure the safe repatriation of two other symptomatic individuals.
Sources: 
Three passengers died from a suspected hantavirus outbreak aboard the MV Hondius cruise ship in the Atlantic. The World Health Organization confirmed one case and five suspected others, prompting ongoing investigations, as symptomatic individuals were evacuated for treatment in South Africa.
