The World Health Organization has launched an investigation into a confirmed case of hantavirus infection aboard the cruise ship MV Hondius, currently in the Atlantic Ocean between Argentina and Cape Verde, with multiple suspected cases under review. Health authorities have initiated testing and isolation protocols on board as part of an emergency response to contain potential spread.

Hantavirus, primarily transmitted to humans through inhalation of aerosolized rodent excreta, can lead to severe respiratory and renal complications. The two main clinical forms are hantavirus pulmonary syndrome and hemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome, with fatality rates reaching 38% in severe cases, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

There is no specific antiviral treatment for hantavirus; care is supportive and includes oxygen therapy, fluid management, and dialysis when necessary. Early diagnosis and intensive care intervention are critical to improving patient outcomes.

The MV Hondius is being monitored by international health officials while teams work to determine the source of rodent exposure on the vessel. The WHO will coordinate further assessment and issue containment guidance within the next 48 hours.