Assertion on Multi-Nation Hantavirus Cluster Associated with Cruise Ship Journey – Africa CDC

Date: 5 May 2026

The Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) is intently monitoring studies of a cluster of hantavirus infections recognized amongst people travelling on the worldwide cruise ship MV Hondius, which departed Ushuaia, Argentina, on 20 March 2026 for the Canary Islands through Cabo Verde.

On 2 May 2026, a cluster of extreme respiratory sickness was reported amongst passengers aboard the vessel, which carried a complete of 147 people, together with crew. As of 4 May 2026, seven circumstances of hantavirus an infection have been recognized (two laboratory-confirmed and 5 suspected circumstances). Among these, three fatalities have been recorded; one affected person stays in vital situation below medical care in South Africa, and three people are experiencing gentle signs.

Symptom onset ranged from 6 to twenty-eight April 2026 and was characterised by fever and gastrointestinal signs, adopted by fast development to pneumonia, acute respiratory misery syndrome and shock. The index case died on 11 April 2026 whereas on board; the stays are at the moment in Saint Helena pending repatriation to the Netherlands.

Authorities from Cabo Verde, the Netherlands, Spain, South Africa and the United Kingdom have initiated a coordinated worldwide response, together with case investigation, isolation and scientific administration, medical evacuation and laboratory testing.

Laboratory affirmation has been performed on the National Institute for Communicable Diseases (NICD) in South Africa. Further analyses, together with serology, sequencing and metagenomics, are ongoing.

Hantaviruses are primarily transmitted to people by contact with contaminated rodent excreta, saliva or urine and aren’t usually related to sustained human-to-human transmission. However, the clustering of circumstances amongst travellers in a confined atmosphere warrants heightened vigilance and additional investigation to find out the supply and mode of publicity.

Africa CDC is intently monitoring the state of affairs and stays involved with affected international locations to offer help as wanted.

At this time, the outbreak seems confined to the cruise ship, with no proof of transmission inside African international locations. The danger to most of the people stays low. Nonetheless, Africa CDC advises Member States to strengthen port well being providers, reinforce an infection prevention and management measures, and guarantee well timed reporting of suspected circumstances.

Travellers are inspired to practise good hygiene, keep away from contact with rodents or doubtlessly contaminated environments, and search medical consideration in the event that they develop signs comparable to fever, fatigue, muscle aches or respiratory issue following journey.

Africa CDC will proceed to offer updates as extra info turns into obtainable.