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Introduction
A suspected hantavirus outbreak aboard MV Hondius was reported to have left three passengers dead during a Transatlantic expedition voyage in early May 2026. Several other people were reported ill, prompting an international health response.
What Happened
The expedition ship had sailed from Ushuaia toward Cape Verde and was reported off Praia while health authorities coordinated the response. One case was described as confirmed, with other infections under investigation. The ship carried approximately 170 passengers along with crew and expedition staff.
Response and Investigation
The reported fatalities included an elderly couple and a third passenger. One patient remained in intensive care in South Africa, while additional symptomatic people were awaiting medical evacuation. The World Health Organization and national authorities were involved in laboratory testing, containment and coordination with Oceanwide Expeditions.
- Hantavirus is generally associated with exposure to infected rodents, and person-to-person transmission is considered uncommon.
- The remote location of the vessel complicated access to shore-based medical facilities.
- Further cases remained possible while the incubation period and test results were assessed.