WHO confirms 10 global hantavirus cases linked to MV Hondius

The World Health Organization has confirmed 10 global cases of hantavirus linked to the Dutch luxury cruise ship MV Hondius, revising its previous count of 11 after one individual tested negative. The outbreak is associated with a polar expedition that departed from Argentina, during which three deaths have been reported among passengers.

Maria Van Kerkhove, director of the WHO’s department for epidemic and pandemic preparedness and prevention, clarified that the initial count included one individual with an inconclusive test result. Further confirmation from the United States established that this person was negative, leaving eight laboratory-confirmed cases and two classified as probable.

WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus stated that the global risk of spread remains low. He confirmed that the ship’s captain and 26 crew members are currently symptom-free and are being monitored. Tedros noted that the long incubation period of up to six weeks means more cases may be reported in the coming days as passengers return to their countries.

The remains of a deceased passenger remain on board the MV Hondius. The WHO is working with the ship to ensure proper handling of the body. Passengers are undergoing quarantine and testing in specialised facilities or at home, measures Tedros described as evidence that control protocols are functioning effectively.

The outbreak is attributed to the Andes virus strain, which can spread between humans through prolonged close contact, unlike other hantavirus strains typically transmitted via rodents. The WHO is collaborating with experts in Argentina, Chile, and Uruguay to investigate the strain. There are currently no approved vaccines or targeted antiviral treatments for the disease.