Hantavirus Outbreak on Cruise Ship Results in Evacuations and Deaths

Wed, 06 May 2026 17:51:00 +0200

A serious outbreak of Hantavirus has occurred on a cruise ship anchored off the coast of Africa, prompting the evacuation of three passengers suspected of being infected. Tragically, three other individuals have died due to the virus while on board. CNN's Sara Sidner spoke with Dr. Ashish Jha, former White House COVID-19 Response Coordinator, to provide insight into the disease and its risks. Hantavirus is a rare but potentially deadly virus spread primarily through contact with rodent droppings, urine, or saliva, and can cause severe respiratory illness in humans. Authorities are working closely with the ship's crew and international health organizations to contain the outbreak and provide medical assistance to those affected. Passengers have been advised to follow strict quarantine measures, and health officials are monitoring for further symptoms among remaining individuals on the vessel. The incident highlights ongoing concerns about infectious diseases on cruise ships, which can r