At least one case of hantavirus has been confirmed among the passengers. Around 150 passengers were onboard at the time of the outbreak. The first victim was a 70-year-old Dutch man who died on the ship. His 69-year-old wife collapsed at an airport in South Africa and later died in a hospital.

The outbreak has prompted investigations by the World Health Organization (WHO) and local health authorities. A British national is currently in intensive care in Johannesburg after falling ill near Ascension Island. Two crew members are also experiencing acute respiratory symptoms and require medical care.

Health officials have stated that hantavirus infections are primarily spread by contact with infected rodents. The cruise ship had left Argentina about three weeks prior to the outbreak. Officials have not confirmed if rodent transmission occurred on board.

Key facts:

• A total of three people have died due to the outbreak.
• There is at least one confirmed case of hantavirus among passengers.
• The ship was blocked from docking because of health concerns.
• Investigations are ongoing by WHO and local health authorities.

The risk to the wider public remains low, according to health officials. Detailed investigations are ongoing, including further laboratory testing and epidemiological investigations. Local health authorities have visited the vessel to assess the condition of those affected.

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