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- A viral outbreak on a cruise ship in the Atlantic has killed 3 people, the WHO says (businessinsider.com)
The World Health Organization (WHO) has reported the deaths of three individuals following a suspected hantavirus outbreak aboard a cruise ship in the Atlantic Ocean. Laboratory tests have confirmed one case of hantavirus, with five additional suspected cases among those affected.
According to the WHO’s statement on Sunday, six people have been impacted by the outbreak, with three fatalities and one person currently receiving intensive care in South Africa. Hantavirus infections are typically associated with exposure to the urine or feces of infected rodents, such as mice. Although rare, the virus can sometimes spread between humans and may cause severe respiratory illness, necessitating close medical monitoring and treatment.
While the WHO did not name the vessel in its initial release, reports from Agence France-Presse indicate that the incident occurred on the MV Hondius, a Dutch-operated cruise ship currently near the coast of Cape Verde. The Hondius accommodates up to 170 passengers across 80 cabins, according to its operator, Oceanwide Expeditions.
The WHO is actively conducting a thorough investigation, including laboratory testing and epidemiological studies, and is working closely with member states and the ship’s operators to medically evacuate two symptomatic passengers.
Further updates will be provided as more information becomes available.
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- A viral outbreak on a cruise ship in the Atlantic has killed 3 people, the WHO says (businessinsider.com)