MV Hondius hantavirus outbreak: tour company issues crisis response as repatriation gets underway

The World Health Organization (WHO) confirmed on Sunday, May 3, that three fatalities occurred aboard a cruise ship sailing in the Atlantic. One of these deaths was definitively attributed to hantavirus, a disease transmitted to humans by rodents.

The outbreak occurred on the MV Hondius as it sailed from Ushuaia, Argentina, to Cape Verde.

According to a recent report by AFP, the statement revealed: “To date, one case of hantavirus infection has been laboratory confirmed, and there are five additional suspected cases.” 

“Of the six affected individuals, three have died, and one is currently in intensive care in South Africa.”

Following the breaking news story, Oceanwide Expeditions, the Dutch tour company that runs the tours, issued a statement.

“Oceanwide Expeditions is currently managing a serious medical situation on board the vessel m/v Hondius, located off the coast of Cape Verde. During this voyage, three passengers have passed away. In addition, one passenger is currently being treated in intensive care in Johannesburg, and two crew members on board require urgent medical care.

“As of 23:00 hrs CET on 3 May 2026, no authorisation from Cape Verdean authorities has been given to disembark guests requiring medical care or to support with medical screening. Local health authorities have visited the vessel to assess the condition of the two symptomatic individuals. 

“They are yet to make a decision regarding the transfer of these individuals into medical care in Cape Verde. The priority of Oceanwide Expeditions is to ensure that the two symptomatic individuals on board receive adequate and expedited medical care.

“Dutch authorities have agreed to lead a joint effort in organising the repatriation of the two symptomatic individuals on board m/v Hondius from Cape Verde to the Netherlands. The body of the deceased individual is also planned to be included in this repatriation, along with a guest closely associated with the deceased. 

“This individual is not symptomatic. This repatriation depends on many factors, including the authorisation and support of local Cape Verdean health authorities for the transfer of individuals requiring medical attention from m/v Hondius.

“We are in close contact with those directly affected and their families and are providing support where possible.

“The health and safety of all passengers and crew is our highest priority. Oceanwide Expeditions is working closely with local and international authorities, including WHO, RIVM, relevant embassies, and the Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs. 

“Disembarkation and medical screening of all guests require coordination with local health authorities, and we are in close consultation with them. We are currently establishing the full facts and working on appropriate medical care, screening, and next steps.

“We will provide a further update as soon as more information becomes available.”

On Sunday, May 3, South Africa’s health ministry told AFP that there had been an outbreak of a “severe acute respiratory illness”.

Hantavirus infections, according to the WHO’s statement, are usually associated with environmental exposure, such as contact with the urine or faeces of infected rodents.

What we know so far

A 70-year-old passenger on the cruise presented with symptoms and subsequently died on board while the ship was at St. Helena Island. His body remains there. His 69-year-old wife also became ill during the voyage. The man’s 69-year-old wife also fell ill during the voyage.

Tragically, she reportedly collapsed at OR Tambo International Airport while trying to fly home and was rushed to a Johannesburg hospital, where she later passed away while receiving medical care.

A third fatality remains on the cruise ship, according to the latest reports.

Additionally, one passenger is reportedly in intensive care at the same Johannesburg hospital.

The Dutch government is currently spearheading efforts to repatriate the two crew members exhibiting symptoms and the deceased individual to the Netherlands. This mission is contingent upon receiving final approval from Cape Verde, according to the latest reports.

Following that decision, the ship is scheduled to proceed to Spain’s Canary Islands.

What travellers need to know about the hantavirus

Symptoms Days 1 – 5: 

• High fever (above 38.5°C) and chills. 
• Severe muscle aches, especially in the thighs, hips and back. 
• Abdominal pain, nausea or vomiting

The second phase:

• Shortness of breath and a dry cough. By this stage, your lungs start to fill up with fluid. 
• Decreased kidney function. 
• Internal bleeding. 

Note: Seek emergency help immediately. 

How to safeguard yourself

While no vaccine is currently available, you can take the following preventative measures:

• Avoid contact with rodents.
• Seal your travel gear.
• Store food in rodent-proof containers.
• Do not sleep directly on the ground.
• Ensure that spaces that have been closed off for extended periods are properly aired out and sanitised.

∎ This is a developing story.