The World Health Organization (WHO) has identified 75 contacts in South Africa linked to the hantavirus outbreak associated with the MV Hondius cruise ship, with 42 already traced and placed under monitoring by national authorities.
According to the latest WHO update, eight cases have so far been recorded, including three deaths. Six of the cases have been laboratory-confirmed as Andes virus (ANDV), while four patients remain hospitalized. One previously suspected case was ruled out after testing negative for Andes virus through both PCR and serology tests.
Health authorities continue investigating the source of exposure, focusing on the travel history of the index case.
According to WHO an adult male who disembarked from the vessel in Tristan da Cunha on April 14 remains stable and is being managed in isolation as a probable case pending further laboratory confirmation.
WHO has deployed personnel aboard the MV Hondius, including an expert from the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC), to support passengers, crew members, and ship operators. Technical guidance documents have also been issued to affected countries covering outbreak management, case investigation, safe disembarkation procedures, and follow-up protocols for returning passengers and crew.
The organization has continued to call for enhanced surveillance, early detection of suspected cases, prompt isolation, and strict infection prevention and control measures.
WHO noted that current evidence does not support routine testing or quarantine of asymptomatic contacts as investigations into the outbreak continue.
