Cape Verde Quarantines Cruise Ship After Hantavirus Deaths
Health authorities in Cape Verde have quarantined the Dutch cruise ship Hondius off the coast of Praia after an outbreak of a rare respiratory illness claimed the lives of three people on board. The World Health Organization (WHO) has confirmed at least one case of hantavirus, a group of viruses typically transmitted by rodents.
Current Condition of Passengers and Crew
The Ministry of Health reported Saturday that among the 147 passengers and crew members, three individuals are currently showing symptoms. While they are being monitored by specialized medical teams, officials say the patients are “clinically stable.”
As a strict precautionary measure, the vessel remains anchored at the entrance to the Port of Praia. Local authorities have denied the ship permission to dock or disembark passengers. Health personnel, equipped in full protective gear, have been ferried to the ship to provide direct assistance.
Coordinated International Response
The situation has triggered a swift international response involving health authorities from the Netherlands, the United Kingdom, and the WHO. According to the Ministry, preparations are in place for a potential medical evacuation via air ambulance for the patients currently under observation.
“The situation is under control, and so far, there is no risk to the population on land,” the Ministry of Health stated, emphasizing that International Health Regulations are being strictly followed to safeguard public health.
Origin and Route
The Hondius, operated by Oceanwide Expeditions, was traveling a route from Ushuaia, Argentina, to the Canary Islands. The vessel had spent time in the South Atlantic visiting various islands for wildlife observation tourism before the outbreak was reported.
Oceanwide Expeditions confirmed to the Associated Press that the body of the third victim remains on the ship. The company stated its current priority is ensuring that its sick crew members receive specialized medical care. Meanwhile, the Dr. Agostinho Neto Hospital in Cape Verde’s capital has been placed on standby should any patients require advanced hospital treatment.
What is Hantavirus?
Hantaviruses are a group of viruses usually carried by rodents such as mice and rats. Humans can become infected through contact with rodent urine, droppings, or saliva, or by breathing in contaminated air. While rare, the virus can lead to severe and sometimes fatal respiratory syndromes.
Image: Pexels – Ana Marta Jorge
