The MV Hondius. A cruise ship traveling from Argentina across the Atlantic to Cape Verde, is currently dealing with a hantavirus outbreak that has killed three people, though the ship could dock in the Canary Islands by the weekend, according to reports.

Andes Strain Confirmed in Passengers

The Andes strain of hantavirus has been confirmed in two passengers who were taken to South Africa for treatment; South Africa’s health minister announced the confirmation, highlighting the severity of the situation. The Andes strain is one of more than 20 different hantavirus species identified by the World Health Organisation (WHO), and it is unique in that it can, although rarely, be transmitted between humans.

Most hantaviruses are linked to rodent transmission, typically through dried urine and droppings; However, the Andes strain has previously been responsible for a notable outbreak in Argentina in late 2018. That outbreak was traced back to a single individual who inadvertently infected 34 others, leading to 11 deaths.

Measures to Contain the Outbreak

Experts have emphasized the need for social distancing and other measures to contain the virus on board the ship, similar to those used during the COVID-19 pandemic. Passengers are currently confined to their cabins to limit exposure — these measures include isolating infected individuals, regular handwashing, contact tracing, monitoring close contacts, and applying standard infection control protocols.

It is still unclear how the outbreak began — a Dutch couple who died from the virus had traveled in South America before boarding the ship in early April. It is possible that one or both of them were infected during their travels, and the cruise also visited remote wildlife areas, raising the possibility that a passenger came into contact with the virus during the trip.

Understanding How Hantavirus Spreads

Hantavirus is typically spread when people come into close contact with rodent droppings, urine, or saliva; this often occurs when these materials are stirred into the air and inhaled. The virus can also be contracted through a bite from an infected rodent. While most hantaviruses are transmitted through rodents, the Andes strain is the only one known to spread from person to person, albeit very rarely.

Person-to-person transmission of the Andes strain occurs through very close and prolonged contact with an infected individual. The WHO has been monitoring the situation closely, noting that the virus could be spreading both through human interaction and potential rodent contact on the ship.

Further genetic testing of the virus may help determine how it initially entered the ship. This information could be key to understanding the source of the outbreak and preventing similar incidents in the future.