Three people have died following a suspected hantavirus outbreak on a cruise ship sailing across the Atlantic Ocean. The World Health Organization (WHO) confirmed at least one case on May 4, 2026, while five more suspected cases remain under investigation. The ship involved is the MV Hondius, operated by Dutch tour company Oceanwide Expeditions.

The MV Hondius departed from Ushuaia, Argentina, on March 20 and was originally scheduled to arrive in Cape Verde on May 4. The ship carries up to 170 passengers in 80 cabins, along with 57 crew members, 13 guides, and one doctor on board. It is a 107.6-meter polar expedition vessel.

South African health officials stated that the first person to show symptoms was a 70-year-old Dutch man, who died on the ship. His 69-year-old wife also fell ill and was evacuated to a hospital in Johannesburg, South Africa, where she later died. A 69-year-old British national is currently receiving treatment in intensive care in Johannesburg.

Hantavirus is typically transmitted to humans from rodents through contact with their urine, droppings, or saliva. The virus can cause serious breathing problems and is sometimes fatal. Person-to-person transmission is rare but not impossible, which is why health authorities are closely monitoring all passengers and crew.

The UK Foreign Office said it is monitoring the situation and is ready to assist British nationals affected. Public health experts are urging anyone who was aboard the ship to report any symptoms immediately. This outbreak has raised serious questions about health safety standards on long ocean voyages.