Three individuals have lost their lives aboard a cruise ship in the Atlantic, with at least one confirmed case of hantavirus, a rare illness transmitted from rodents to humans.
Health officials are currently investigating a potential outbreak of the virus on the MV Hondius, which is on the way from Ushuaia in Argentina to Cape Verde.
Hantavirus, a rare condition spread to humans via the droppings or urine of infected rodents, can be deadly in severe cases and may lead to hemorrhagic fever.
In a statement released on Sunday, the World Health Organisation (WHO) reported that one case has been confirmed, with at least five additional passengers suspected of being infected.
“Among the six individuals affected, three have died, and one is presently in intensive care in South Africa,” the WHO stated.
The organisation further stated, “Detailed investigations are ongoing, including further laboratory testing and epidemiological investigations. Medical care and support are being provided to passengers and crew. Sequencing of the virus is also ongoing.”
The WHO mentioned that it is facilitating coordination among nations to evacuate the two other passengers displaying symptoms of the infection.
South Africa announces outbreak of deadly respiratory illness
Earlier on Sunday, South Africa’s National Department of Health announced an outbreak of a severe acute respiratory illness, which has resulted in the deaths of at least two individuals, with a third person currently in intensive care in Johannesburg.
The ministry’s spokesperson, Foster Mohale, confirmed that the patient receiving treatment in Johannesburg has tested positive for hantavirus.
The first individual to exhibit symptoms was a 70-year-old man. He passed away on the ship, and his remains are currently being held on the island of Saint Helena, a British territory located in the South Atlantic, according to the spokesman.
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