Two people in serious condition who were evacuated from a cruise ship with a confirmed outbreak of deadly hantavirus have arrived in the Netherlands for treatment, operator Oceanwide Expeditions has said. A third passenger in stable condition was also evacuated. The ship, the 'Plancius,' was near Cape Verde when the outbreak was detected.
Hantavirus is a rare but severe viral disease transmitted through rodent droppings, urine, or saliva. It can cause hantavirus pulmonary syndrome (HPS), which has a high mortality rate. The outbreak on the cruise ship is unusual, as hantavirus is typically associated with rural or wilderness exposure.
Oceanwide Expeditions confirmed that the ship is now in port in Cape Verde, and all other passengers and crew are being monitored for symptoms. The company is cooperating with health authorities to ensure safety. No further evacuations have been reported as of May 7, 2026.
