WHO/P.Virot WHO flag outside the organization’s headquarters in Geneva WHO: cases of hantavirus infection detected on a cruise ship in the Atlantic, three people died Health
The World Health Organization (WHO) on Sunday reported a “public health event” related to a cruise ship in the Atlantic Ocean. The organization is coordinating the response and providing support to passengers and crew.
According to WHO, currently one case of hantavirus infection has been laboratory confirmed, and five more cases are considered suspicious. Of the six cases, three have died and one patient is in intensive care in South Africa.
Specialists are carefully studying the situation, including conducting additional laboratory tests and epidemiological analysis. Medical care is being provided to everyone on board, and sequencing of the virus is ongoing.
As explained by WHO, hantavirus infections are usually associated with environmental exposure, particularly contact with the urine or feces of infected rodents. In rare cases, transmission from person to person is possible. The disease can be severe, causing damage to the respiratory system, and requires close monitoring and prompt treatment.
WHO is coordinating between Member States and the ship operator for the medical evacuation of two symptomatic passengers. At the same time, public health risks are being assessed and support is being provided to the remaining passengers and crew.
The organization noted that it has already notified national contact centers in accordance with the International Health Regulations. An official message about the outbreak will be published shortly to the general public.