Hantavirus latest: British doctor evacuated from virus-hit cruise ship in stable condition

CAPE VERDE — Passengers aboard the cruise ship Hondius are facing a medical crisis after a hantavirus outbreak led to at least one death and multiple emergency evacuations during a voyage across the Atlantic.

The situation has escalated into a medical and diplomatic standoff, with the government of Cape Verde reportedly denying the vessel entry and refusing to facilitate the evacuation of ill passengers.

The details of the outbreak emerged through a video shared online by travel influencer and passenger Kasem Hato, who described the progression of the illness and the subsequent reaction of the crew, and passengers.

Voyage timeline and initial casualties

The journey began in the south of Argentina, with a planned route across the Atlantic intended to visit isolated islands to observe nature and wildlife before concluding in Cape Verde.

The medical crisis began early in the trip. According to Hato, after the ship reached its first island, a passenger’s health deteriorated, resulting in their death.

As the voyage continued, a second passenger began exhibiting symptoms of hantavirus. The ship stopped at Ascension Island to allow for that individual’s evacuation.

The crisis intensified as the vessel approached its final destination. Hato stated that two more passengers began to feel unwell as the ship reached Cape Verde.

Standoff with Cape Verde authorities

Despite the presence of sick passengers, the ship has been unable to secure the necessary medical support from its destination.

In footage translated by Reuters, Hato stated that Cape Verde &quot. refused to medically evacuate the sick and refused our presence completely in their waters."

Maritime medical evacuations, commonly known as MEDEVACs, are standard procedures for cruise lines to ensure critically ill passengers receive hospital care. Though, the refusal by local authorities has left the remaining sick passengers on board without immediate shoreside treatment.

Passenger response and virus theories

Despite the deaths and evacuations, the atmosphere among the remaining 150 passengers has remained stable.

Hato reported that "most people on the ship have responded to the issue very calmly," noting a general belief among the passengers that the risk of widespread infection is low.

Passengers have speculated on the origin of the outbreak, suggesting that the initial fatality was the source of the virus. Hato explained the prevailing view on board:

"It’s believed that the first person who died on the boat is the person who brought this virus onto the boat, and in one way or another, spread the infection to some of the other people on the ship."

Hato further dismissed concerns that the outbreak could signal a larger health crisis, stating, "this virus is not a new virus to the world. If it was going to be a pandemic, it would have already happened a long time ago."

The Hondius remains outside the waters of Cape Verde with two passengers currently unwell.