Additional Coverage:
MV Hondius Cruise Ship Quarantined Off Cape Verde Amid Hantavirus Outbreak
The MV Hondius, a cruise ship carrying nearly 150 passengers, remains anchored off the coast of Praia, Cape Verde, as it grapples with a hantavirus outbreak. What began as an adventurous journey to explore some of the world’s most remote islands has turned into a tense and uncertain ordeal for those on board.
The virus, which can cause symptoms ranging from fatigue and fever to severe organ failure, has tragically claimed the lives of three passengers. Authorities have identified several others suspected of infection, with three slated for evacuation in the coming hours. Meanwhile, all other passengers remain confined to their cabins under strict isolation and hygiene protocols.
The ship’s final scheduled stop was Cape Verde, but disembarkation has been prohibited. Spain has agreed to receive the vessel in the Canary Islands within three to four days, though until then the Hondius will remain anchored offshore. Passengers are doing their best to cope with the situation, many sharing their experiences through social media.
Travel vlogger Kasem Hato posted videos from the ship’s deck, pointing out the nearby Cape Verdean coastline while explaining the restrictions. Despite the outbreak, Hato described passengers as calm and cooperative. “Most people on the ship are taking the matter very calmly,” he said, emphasizing that hantavirus is a known illness and dismissing fears of a widespread epidemic.
World Health Organization experts note that while human-to-human transmission may have occurred aboard, it likely happened only between close contacts such as spouses or caregivers. The risk to the general public remains very low.
Among the deceased were a married couple, and some of those ill include a person connected to the third victim and a doctor. Passengers like Jake Rosmarin report that aside from those affected, spirits remain high.
He praised the crew’s efforts to keep everyone informed, safe, and comfortable under difficult circumstances. Wildlife photographer Alejandra Rendon echoed these sentiments, commending the crew’s management of the crisis.
Medical supplies have been replenished, and passengers are following safety measures including mask-wearing, hand sanitizing, and social distancing. Meals are delivered directly to cabins, and limited solo walks on deck are permitted to provide fresh air.
Captain and ship management continue to update passengers regularly. Many are passing time reading, watching films, and trying to maintain a positive outlook amid the uncertainty.
Rosmarin shared on social media, “I’m feeling well, getting some fresh air and continuing to be well fed and taken care of by the crew onboard. Just trying to focus on the positive, think about the good things, and keep a smile on my face.”
As the MV Hondius awaits permission to dock in the Canary Islands, passengers remain hopeful for a safe resolution to this unexpected challenge at sea.