A second British individual is among two crew members requiring urgent medical care aboard the MV Hondius cruise ship, which is at the centre of a suspected hantavirus outbreak. The vessel remains stationed off the coast of Cape Verde, with passengers awaiting permission to disembark.
Fatalities and Critical Condition
Three people have died, and a 69-year-old British man is fighting for his life in intensive care in Johannesburg after contracting hantavirus. The deceased include a Dutch couple, aged 69 and 70, and a German national. The British man is in a critical but stable condition.
Current Situation Onboard
Cruise operator Oceanwide Expeditions confirmed that there are 23 Britons on board—19 passengers and four crew members. One of the two crew members with acute respiratory symptoms is British, while the other is Dutch. The operator stated, "There are currently two crew members on board with acute respiratory symptoms, one mild and one severe. Both require urgent medical care." No other symptomatic individuals have been identified.
The vessel is off the coast of Cape Verde, and disembarkation is pending authorisation from local health authorities. Despite a visit from local health officials, medical transfer of the two ill crew members has not yet occurred.
Background on Hantavirus
Hantavirus is a deadly disease contracted by inhaling infected rodent urine, droppings, or saliva. It was the same disease that claimed the life of Betsy Arakawa, wife of actor Gene Hackman, in February last year.
Response and Next Steps
Oceanwide Expeditions is collaborating with local and international authorities, including the World Health Organization (WHO), the Dutch National Institute for Public Health and the Environment (RIVM), relevant embassies, and the Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Options under consideration include sailing to Las Palmas or Tenerife for disembarkation, where further medical screening and handling could take place.
Strict precautionary measures are in effect on board, including isolation protocols, hygiene procedures, and medical monitoring. All passengers have been informed and are receiving support. The company remains in close contact with affected individuals and their families.
