Three dead in Atlantic cruise ship horror as Brit passenger, 69, fights for life

The virus is usually caught from infected rodents

Three holidaymakers have died after a deadly virus outbreak swept through a cruise ship, with rodent droppings feared to be the cause.

One case of hantavirus has been confirmed and five more are being probed, as a British passenger fights for life in intensive care. The MV Hondius, sailing from Argentina to Cape Verde, has been hit by the terrifying outbreak, the World Health organisation revealed. The virus is usually caught from infected rodents but can, in rare cases, spread between people and trigger severe respiratory problems.

Foster Mohale, a spokesperson for South Africa’s health ministry, confirmed at least two people had died onboard the vessel, which the Dutch tour company Oceanwide Expeditions operates.

The ship departed Ushuaia, Argentina, on March 20, according to the company’s published itinerary, due to arrive in Cape Verde on Monday (May 4).

A 69-year-old British man was evacuated to Johannesburg during the trip as passengers showed signs of the virus, and is currently receiving treatment in intensive care.

South African authorities confirmed the first person to show symptoms was a 70-year-old passenger who died on board. His body has since been transferred to the island of Saint Helena.

The man’s 69-year-old wife also became ill during the journey and was evacuated to South Africa, where she later died in a Johannesburg hospital.

The ship measures 107.6m (353ft) in length and can carry up to 170 passengers across 80 cabins, according to Oceanwide Expeditions

The WHO said it is assisting with coordination between member states and the ship’s operator, including the medical evacuation of two symptomatic passengers, a full public health risk assessment, and support for those still on board.

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