The World Health Organization confirms five cases of hantavirus on the MV Hondius: three deaths and other suspected cases, authorities currently rule out an epidemic.

The Director of WHO, Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, announced that five cases of hantavirus have been confirmed on the cruise ship Hondius, flying the Dutch flag, while three other cases are suspected. So far, eight cases have been reported, including three deaths. WHO considers that this is not the beginning of an epidemic, but emphasizes the importance of public health measures to limit the spread.

The ship, which carries 146 passengers from 23 countries, has been anchored off the coast of Cape Verde and is heading towards the Canary Islands. Three people have died, and the evacuation of passengers is currently underway. Authorities in the Canary Islands have stated that the ship will not dock, and the evacuation will be carried out with the help of small vessels. WHO is collaborating with the involved countries to support epidemiological investigations and limit the spread of the disease. Although the incident is serious, WHO assesses the risk to public health as low.