Adedokun Waliyu Three people suspected of being infected with Hantavirus have been evacuated from a cruise ship off Cape Verde and are being transported to Netherlands for treatment.
According to the World Health Organization, the overall public health risk remains low despite the alert. The disease is rare and is typically spread through contact with infected rodents, especially via their urine, droppings, or saliva.
The cases are linked to the MV Hondius, which has been under international attention after three passengers died, with hantavirus suspected as the cause.
The ship departed from Ushuaia in Argentina on April 1 for an Atlantic voyage and has been anchored off Cape Verde. It carried 88 passengers and 59 crew members from 23 different nationalities.
So far, three cases have been confirmed, including one fatality, while five additional cases remain suspected.
The evacuation involved two crew members and one other individual believed to be infected. It was carried out in coordination with the WHO, the ship’s operator Oceanwide Expeditions, and authorities from Cape Verde, Britain, and the Netherlands.
The WHO said it is continuing to monitor the health of passengers and crew, while also working with national authorities to ensure proper follow-up and medical care for those affected or at risk.
Health monitoring has also been initiated for individuals still on board and those who have already disembarked, as part of efforts to contain the situation.
