Hantavirus outbreak kills 3 on cruise ship in Atlantic Ocean, WHO says: NPR

Three people have died in an outbreak of a deadly respiratory virus on a cruise ship in the Atlantic Ocean, according to the World Health Organization.

At least six people are believed to have been infected with hantavirus, including one person whose infection has been laboratory confirmed, and five other suspected cases. Three people have died and one is currently in intensive care in South Africa, WHO said.

“A detailed investigation is underway, including further laboratory testing and epidemiological investigation. Passengers and crew are being provided medical care and assistance. Sequencing of the virus is also ongoing,” the agency said.

The WHO said the agency is “facilitating coordination between WHO Member States and the ship’s operators to evacuate the two passengers showing symptoms” as well as provide full public health risk assessment and assistance to the remaining passengers on board.

WHO did not name the cruise ship or release any additional details.

Hantavirus A family of viruses that are usually spread by contact with the urine, saliva, or feces of infected rodents, such as rats or mice. Hantavirus infections are rare but can cause a serious respiratory infection called hantavirus pulmonary syndrome.

Symptoms usually begin with fatigue, fever, and muscle aches, but can also include headache, dizziness, chills, and additional problems such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach pain. Due to fluid filling in the lungs, this disease can progress to cough, difficulty in breathing and chest tightness. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, more than a third of patients who experience respiratory symptoms may die from the syndrome.

The disease received recent attention when it took the life of Betsy Arakawa, wife of actor Gene Hackman.