A deadly hantavirus outbreak aboard the luxury cruise ship MV Hondius has sparked global concern after three deaths and multiple infections were reported, making headlines under latest news Assam and international health coverage.
The cruise ship has reportedly been stranded off Cape Verde since May 3 and departed for Spain on May 6. Authorities expect the vessel to reach Tenerife within the next few days.
WHO Confirms Multiple Cases
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), five out of eight suspected cases linked to the cruise have been confirmed positive for hantavirus.
Among the deceased is a 69-year-old Dutch woman who tested positive for the virus. The deaths of her husband and a German woman are also under investigation.
Rare Human-To-Human Transmission Reported
Health officials stated that hantavirus is traditionally spread through contact with infected rodents or rodent droppings. However, the latest outbreak reportedly involved rare human-to-human transmission, increasing global concern.
Experts are closely monitoring the situation due to the unusual nature of the infections aboard the vessel.
About The Cruise Ship
The MV Hondius, operated by Oceanwide Expeditions, began its journey from Ushuaia on April 1 with nearly 150 passengers and crew members onboard.
The outbreak has now become a widely discussed topic across breaking news Assam, latest news Guwahati, and global health coverage platforms.