Suspected hantavirus outbreak on cruise ship leaves three dead

Health officials are investigating a suspected hantavirus outbreak aboard a cruise ship sailing in the Atlantic Ocean after three people died and another passenger was placed in intensive care.

(NBC)- Health officials are investigating a suspected hantavirus outbreak aboard a cruise ship sailing in the Atlantic Ocean after three people died and another passenger was placed in intensive care.

According to the World Health Organization, the ship departed from southern Argentina roughly three weeks ago with about 150 tourists onboard and has made multiple stops across the Atlantic. Officials with South Africa Health Ministry say authorities are coordinating with the ship’s operators as the vessel remains at sea.

Hantavirus is a rare but potentially deadly disease typically spread through contact with rodent droppings, especially from mice. The virus gained renewed public attention after it was linked to the death of Betsy Arakawa, wife of actor Gene Hackman, last year. Medical experts say symptoms may take several days to develop and can initially resemble common respiratory illnesses.

Dr. Kavita Patel said patients often first experience coughing, shortness of breath, fever and rapid heart rate before more severe complications develop.

“As the virus attacks the body, you can see other symptoms, including sepsis,” Patel explained.

A former passenger who traveled on the ship last year described it as a smaller, modern vessel. The World Health Organization says it is now working with international partners to arrange medical evacuations for two symptomatic passengers who remain onboard.