Deadly virus breaks out on cruise ship as three die and Brit fights for life

Three people have died on a cruise ship following a suspected virus outbreak caused by rodent droppings. One case of hantavirus has been confirmed, with a further five suspected infections under investigation. One British national is reported to be in intensive care. The outbreak was reported aboard the MV Hondius, which was travelling from Argentina to Cape Verde, the World Health Organization has told the BBC. Hantavirus infections are typically linked to environmental exposure, such as contact with urine or faeces from infected rodents. In rare cases, the virus can spread between people and lead to severe respiratory illness. Foster Mohale, a spokesperson for South Africa’s health ministry, earlier told the BBC that at least two people had died. The vessel is operated by Dutch tour company Oceanwide Expeditions. According to the company’s published itinerary, the ship departed Ushuaia, Argentina, on 20 March and was due to arrive in Cape Verde on 4 May. South African authorities say the first person to show symptoms was a 70-year-old passenger who died on board. His body has since been transferred to the island of Saint Helena. His 69-year-old wife also became ill during the voyage and was evacuated to South Africa, where she later died in a Johannesburg hospital. A 69-year-old British man was also evacuated to Johannesburg and is currently receiving treatment in intensive care. According to Oceanwide Expeditions, the ship measures 107.6m (353ft) in length and can carry up to 170 passengers across 80 cabins. The WHO said it is assisting with coordination between member states and the ship’s operator, including the medical evacuation of two symptomatic passengers, a full public health risk assessment, and support for those still on board.