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Deadly hantavirus may have spread between humans on luxury cruise but WHO says risk is low

The MV Hondius will sail to Spain’s Canary Islands, where the 150 people on board will be examined and treated if needed before being sent home.

Published: 4:20pm, 6 May 2026Updated: 3:55pm, 11 May 2026

Some rare human-to-human transmissions of the deadly hantavirus may have taken place on a luxury cruise ship, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). Seven confirmed or suspected cases have been reported aboard the MV Hondius. Three people have died. The cruise ship is currently docked off the African coast as health officials investigate.

Deadly hantavirus may have spread between humans on luxury cruise but WHO says risk is low

.css-1c6uqr6{color:inherit;font-weight:inherit;font-size:inherit;font-family:inherit;line-height:inherit;overflow-wrap:break-word;}The MV Hondius will sail to Spain’s Canary Islands, where the 150 people on board will be examined and treated if needed before being sent home.

The MV Hondius will sail to Spain’s Canary Islands, where the 150 people on board will be examined and treated if needed before being sent home.