The number of hantavirus cases on the cruise ship MV Hondius has increased to seven, according to the WHO.
One patient is in critical condition, and three are exhibiting mild symptoms. Three people, as previously reported by Fontanka, have died.
Three weeks ago, the ship flying the flag of the Netherlands departed from the city of Ushuaia (Argentina) and headed to its final destination — the Canary Islands. The severe respiratory illness on board was reported on May 2, although the first symptoms in passengers appeared between April 6 and 28, such as fever, gastrointestinal disorders, and pneumonia.
There are about 150 people on board the ship, mainly citizens of the USA, UK, Netherlands, and Spain. The vessel has now approached Cape Verde, and entry to the port has been denied.
What is hantavirus
Hantaviruses are a type of virus that is primarily transmitted to humans through inhalation of particles found in dried rodent droppings. The virus can cause two severe diseases: hantavirus pulmonary syndrome and hemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome.
