The World Health Organization (WHO) announced on Thursday the end of the deadly hantavirus outbreak aboard the "Hondius" ship, reporting a return to calm for the passengers of the vessel. The last person exposed to the virus has left quarantine after testing negative.
An Unwanted Outbreak at Sea
This dangerous outbreak began in April during the ship's journey from the southernmost point of Argentina to Cape Verde. According to published information, over 650 individuals in 33 countries and regions have been identified as close contacts and are being monitored. Among these individuals, 12 tested positive for the virus, and three of them have died, one of whom was a German citizen.
Hantaviruses are known to cause serious respiratory illnesses, and unfortunately, there is still no vaccine to combat them. These viruses are typically transmitted through the urine, feces, and saliva of infected rodents. Now, with the end of this crisis, many questions remain regarding safety and hygiene in maritime travel.
