WHO Confirms New Hantavirus Case Linked To Cruise Ship Outbreak
The World Health Organization has confirmed another case of hantavirus connected to the outbreak aboard the MV Hondius cruise ship, after a passenger tested positive in Switzerland.
Health officials said the passenger sought medical attention in Zurich after responding to a health alert issued by the ship’s operator. Swiss authorities later confirmed the infection as international investigations into the outbreak continued.
According to WHO, the case is part of a wider health response involving several countries working together to trace passengers and others who may have been exposed during the voyage.
In a statement posted on X, the organisation said Swiss authorities had identified a hantavirus case involving a passenger from the MV Hondius.
WHO added that it is coordinating with countries under the International Health Regulations to support contact tracing efforts and help prevent further spread of the virus.
Laboratory analysis has now confirmed that the outbreak involves the Andes strain of hantavirus.
The strain was identified through joint testing by laboratories in South Africa and Switzerland, with support from health experts in Senegal and Argentina.
As of May 6, WHO said eight cases had been linked to the outbreak, while three infections had been laboratory confirmed.
Earlier reports tied to the cruise ship included multiple deaths and emergency medical evacuations, sparking concern among health authorities monitoring passengers and crew members across different countries.
The agency said efforts are ongoing to ensure affected passengers, crew and close contacts receive proper medical guidance and monitoring as investigations continue.
