Four Canadians are among passengers on the MV Hondius, a polar expedition cruise ship where a suspected outbreak of Hantavirus has resulted in the deaths of three people.
The vessel, operated by Oceanwide Expeditions, was travelling from Argentina to Antarctica and several South Atlantic islands when passengers began showing symptoms consistent with the virus.
According to the company, two crew members currently require medical attention, while no additional cases have been reported among those on board. The ship is now awaiting assistance near Cape Verde, an island nation off the west coast of Africa.
Hantavirus is a rare but potentially serious illness typically spread through contact with infected rodents or their droppings, urine, or saliva. The World Health Organization notes that while transmission between humans is uncommon, it can occur in certain circumstances.
Authorities and health officials are continuing to monitor the situation closely as efforts are underway to manage the outbreak and provide care to those affected. The presence of Canadian passengers highlights the international scope of the incident, though no details have been released about their condition.
The situation remains fluid as the ship awaits further medical and logistical support.