Health authorities are on high alert following a confirmed case of hantavirus linked to a cruise vessel crossing the Atlantic Ocean, with fatalities already recorded and additional suspected infections under investigation.
World Health Organisation Africa Regional Director Mohamed Janabi said the situation, while serious, remains contained, with coordinated efforts underway to manage the public health risk.
“As of 3 May 2026, one case of hantavirus infection has been laboratory confirmed, with five additional suspected cases. Tragically, three people have died, and one patient remains in intensive care in South Africa,” said Janabi.
The development has triggered a multi-country response involving health authorities and the vessel’s operators, as efforts intensify to contain the spread and provide medical support.
“WHO AFRO is closely monitoring and supporting the response to a public health event involving a cruise vessel crossing the Atlantic Ocean,” he said.
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Hantavirus, though rare, is known to cause severe illness in humans and is typically associated with exposure to infected rodents rather than human-to-human transmission.
“Hantavirus is a rare disease typically linked to exposure to infected rodents, and while severe in some cases, it is not easily transmitted between people. WHO is working closely with the countries concerned and the ship’s operators to support medical care, coordinate evacuations, and conduct a full public health risk assessment,” said Janabi.
Authorities have since moved to strengthen surveillance systems across the region, while maintaining that the broader risk to Africa remains low.
“For Africa, the risk remains low at this time, but our vigilance is high. We are strengthening surveillance and preparedness to ensure a swift and effective response,” he said.
Despite the fatalities, WHO has urged the public to remain calm, emphasising that there is no immediate need for panic or travel restrictions.
“Let me reassure the public that this is a serious but contained event, and there is no need for panic or travel restrictions at this stage. Our focus is clear: to save lives, contain risks, and ensure that countries are fully supported with science-based action,” said Janabi.
The WHO said ongoing monitoring and rapid response measures will be critical in preventing further spread, particularly as global travel continues to increase.
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