Cruise Ship with Hantavirus Outbreak Docks in Netherlands

2 weeks ago 0

The MV Hondius, a cruise ship struck by a hantavirus outbreak, arrived in the Netherlands on Monday. This concluded a seven-week journey covering 8,500 miles, during which 11 infections and three deaths occurred due to the rare disease.

Docking at Rotterdam at approximately 4:30 a.m. ET, the ship awaited disinfection after sparking global alerts. The outbreak involved a communicable virus strain primarily spread by rodents. Remaining on board were Captain Jan Dobrogowski and 26 crew members, as most passengers, including 18 Americans, are under quarantine in their home countries. A deceased German passenger’s body was also on the ship.

The voyage began from Ushuaia, Argentina, on April 1. Nearly 150 people embarked on a nature expedition exploring some of Earth’s most remote islands.

MV Hondius in Rotterdam — The MV Hondius arriving at Rotterdam port. Source: Omar Havana / Getty Images

An investigation by the World Health Organization aims to determine the virus’s origin. Initial theories suggest exposure to rodents during a bird-watching trip as the likely cause of the first infection.

So far, there are nine laboratory-confirmed hantavirus cases among the Hondius passengers and two suspected ones. The virus’s incubation period lasts up to six weeks. A Canadian passenger tested positive last week and is receiving hospital treatment. This passenger, like others, has the Andes strain, which can spread between people.

Health workers on MV Hondius with protective gear. Source: Nicolas Tucat / AFP via Getty Images

Passengers, including Americans, are currently isolating at home or in hotels after disembarking on May 10 in Tenerife, Canary Islands. The cruise was initially scheduled to end in Cape Verde, West Africa, but authorities there denied docking permission.

Hantavirus is endemic in parts of South America but is rare among humans and unprecedented on cruise ships. Health officials worldwide continue efforts to mitigate fears of a broader outbreak.

The Hondius is slated to resume voyages next month after disinfection and public health inspections. The Polartours website advertises a “Polar Cruise” beginning June 5, with fares starting at $5,750 per person.