A suspected hantavirus outbreak on the MV Hondius cruise ship has raised global concern after three passengers died in the Atlantic Ocean.

The World Health Organization said the polar expedition vessel was travelling between Argentina and Cape Verde when the outbreak was reported. At least one case has been confirmed, while other suspected cases are under investigation.

One patient was reported to be in intensive care in a South African hospital. South Africa’s Health Department said only two patients from the cruise ship had been within the country’s borders.

The department said it was working with the National Institute for Communicable Diseases and Gauteng health authorities on contact tracing. It said there was no need for public panic.

What is Hantavirus?

Hantaviruses are a group of viruses mainly carried by rodents, including rats and mice.

People usually become infected after breathing in dust contaminated with infected rodent urine, droppings or saliva. Infection can also happen through direct contact, bites or scratches, although this is less common.

Health experts stress that hantavirus does not spread like flu or Covid-19. It is generally not easily passed from person to person.

The WHO is coordinating a multi-country response with affected countries and islands as investigations continue.

Symptoms can Become Serious Fast

Hantavirus infection can be difficult to spot early because symptoms may look like flu.

Patients may develop fever, fatigue, muscle aches, headaches, abdominal pain or back pain. In severe cases, the virus can affect the lungs or kidneys.

Hantavirus pulmonary syndrome can progress quickly, causing coughing, shortness of breath and fluid build-up in the lungs. Severe cases may lead to respiratory failure.

Experts cited in the reports said the incubation period can be long, ranging from one to eight weeks. That makes early detection harder.

Why the Risk Remains Low

Health authorities say the overall risk to the general public remains low.

The main risk comes from exposure to infected rodents or contaminated spaces, especially enclosed areas where rodent waste has been disturbed.

Agricultural communities and people working in areas with higher rodent exposure may face greater risk.

There is no widely used definitive antiviral treatment for hantavirus. Doctors usually provide supportive care, including oxygen, fluids, blood pressure support and ventilation where needed.

For now, officials are focused on tracing possible contacts, testing suspected cases and finding the source of the cruise ship outbreak.