An outbreak of the Andes variant of the hantavirus on the cruise ship MV Hondius has resulted in three deaths and left several passengers infected. The expedition vessel remained anchored off the coast of Cape Verde for several days as health officials managed the crisis, which saw 150 people placed in quarantine.
The situation has drawn stark comparisons to the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic due to the imagery of a quarantined ship in the Atlantic. However, medical experts suggest the nature of this virus is fundamentally different from SARS-CoV-2.
Medical Evacuations and Containment
On May 6, 2026, a 65-year-old German woman was flown to Europe via a special aircraft after having close contact with a deceased compatriot. She was transported by the Düsseldorf Fire Department to the University Hospital Düsseldorf.
The hospital stated that she was admitted for medical clarification as a precautionary measure, noting she was a contact person without confirmed evidence of a hantavirus infection.
Two crew members—a 56-year-old Briton and a 41-year-old Dutchman—were also evacuated for urgent medical assistance. One transport aircraft was forced to make an unscheduled stop in Gran Canaria due to a defect in an isolation capsule.
Expert Analysis: Comparing Andes to COVID-19
Virologist Jonas Schmidt-Chanasit described the outbreak on the MV Hondius as “unusual” and stated it must be taken very seriously, as hantaviruses typically appear in rural areas rather than on cruise ships.
Despite the visual similarities to 2020, Schmidt-Chanasit argues that a scenario similar to SARS-CoV-2 is “very unlikely.” He noted that while SARS-CoV-2 spread efficiently through the respiratory tract, including via asymptomatic individuals, the Andes virus does not behave this way.
According to the virologist, the Andes virus is dangerous due to the severity of the illness it causes, rather than its ability to spread easily through the general population.
Treatment and Current Status
There is currently no vaccine or direct therapy available to treat the virus. Schmidt-Chanasit emphasized that fast, intensive medical supportive therapy is necessary to reduce the fatality rate.
Since May 10, evacuations of the ship have continued. Health officials have since identified six additional confirmed cases and two suspected cases. One case of hantavirus has been reported on land in Switzerland.
Four German passengers have been transported to Frankfurt for examination and further distribution, while another German national is currently in Great Britain. The total number of infections is expected to remain low.
Next Steps for the MV Hondius
Remaining passengers are scheduled to continue to Tenerife. Following the full disembarkation of passengers, the MV Hondius is expected to sail toward Rotterdam with a portion of its crew.
The body of the deceased German passenger will be transported off the ship once it reaches its destination.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes the Andes virus different from other hantaviruses?
We see the only variety of hantavirus that can be transmitted between humans, specifically through close and sustained contact.
Is there a cure or vaccine for the Andes virus?
No, there is no vaccine or direct therapy. Treatment relies on rapid, intensive medical supportive care to lower the risk of death.
Does the general public need to worry about a wider outbreak?
According to virologist Jonas Schmidt-Chanasit, the risk to the general population is not significant; the relevant risk is limited to those who had close contact with infected persons on board.
Do you believe current international protocols are sufficient for managing rare virus outbreaks on cruise ships?
