ATLANTIC OCEAN: A hantavirus outbreak on a luxury cruise ship stranded near Cape Verde has resulted in multiple infections and deaths, according to the World Health Organisation (WHO).

Two cases have been officially confirmed, while five others are suspected among passengers aboard the ship, which is currently holding around 150 people.

The outbreak has led to three fatalities, including a Dutch couple and a German national. One passenger remains critically ill, while others are experiencing mild symptoms.

The ship, identified as the Hondius, had been on an expedition voyage that began in Argentina in March and is now located off the coast of West Africa.

Health authorities have initiated contact tracing after one infected passenger traveled from Saint Helena to Johannesburg before passing away.

Officials stated that another British passenger was evacuated from the ship and is currently receiving treatment in South Africa, where the infection has been confirmed.

Despite the situation, the ship’s operator reported that conditions onboard remain stable, and efforts are underway to safely disembark passengers after proper screening.

WHO emphasized that the risk to the general public remains low, as hantavirus is typically transmitted through contact with infected rodents and rarely spreads between humans.

Cape Verde authorities have instructed the vessel to remain at sea as a precautionary measure while health protocols are being followed.