17 Americans from Hantavirus-Infected Cruise Ship, Including 1 Who Tested Positive, Return to U.S.

Two American passengers from the MV Hondius cruise ship have been placed in biocontainment units following an outbreak of the Andes hantavirus among those on board. One individual has tested positive for the virus, while another is exhibiting mild symptoms. Both passengers are being repatriated to the United States for specialised care, as confirmed by the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS).

On May 10, HHS announced that a total of 17 American citizens were in the process of returning from the cruise ship, which had docked in Tenerife, one of the Canary Islands. The passengers are being transported via a State Department airlift. The safety measures for those with health concerns include transportation in biocontainment units to mitigate any potential transmission risks during their journey.

The Andes hantavirus, which originates from South America, can lead to Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome (HPS)—a severe respiratory illness. Typically, the virus is transmitted through contact with infected rodents, though transmission through human contact is rare. Health officials are particularly cautious given the seriousness of this disease.

Following their return to the United States, the affected passengers will be taken to the ASPR Regional Emerging Special Pathogen Treatment Center located at the University of Nebraska Medical Center in Omaha. After initial treatment, those with mild symptoms will subsequently be moved to a second treatment centre at their final destination. They will be monitored closely for a period of 42 days.

Reports indicate that there are eight suspected cases of hantavirus infection linked to the MV Hondius, with three confirmed through laboratory tests. Among those infected is a French woman who has seen her condition worsen while receiving treatment in a Paris hospital following her repatriation. This individual began exhibiting symptoms during her flight home, raising concerns about the spread of the virus.

The incident has tragically been linked to three confirmed deaths. While the identities of the deceased have not been released, it is understood that they include a Dutch couple and a German national. Additionally, a separate case is ongoing, as one individual remains in critical condition in a South African hospital.

Passengers aboard the cruise ship were seen taking precautions upon disembarking, including wearing face masks and protective coverings for their hair and clothing. Their personal belongings were secured in large plastic bags to further limit any potential exposure.

World Health Organization (WHO) Director-General Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus addressed concerns from Tenerife residents in advance of the ship’s arrival. He emphasised that although outbreaks can be alarming, the public health risk posed by the hantavirus is minimal. He reassured the local community that the current situation is not akin to the COVID-19 pandemic, urging residents to remain calm.

The MV Hondius had embarked on its voyage from Argentina on April 1, making stops in numerous locations, including Antarctica and St. Helena. With approximately 150 passengers, the ship’s call at the Canary Islands has stirred significant attention amid growing health concerns.

In light of these developments, local health authorities and the WHO are continuing to monitor the situation closely, prioritising safety and public health during this outbreak. As the passengers continue their journey home, experts are assessing the implications of the situation and ensuring that appropriate measures are in place to deal with any further cases that may arise.