The World Health Organization has launched an urgent investigation into a suspected human-to-human hantavirus outbreak aboard a luxury cruise ship currently anchored off the coast of Cape Verde. Medical officials confirmed on Tuesday that three passengers have died from the respiratory illness, while four others remain in critical condition within the vessel's intensive care unit.
The ship, which was on a multi-week voyage, has seen 150 passengers confined to their individual cabins to prevent any further spread of the deadly pathogen. Footage captured from the vessel shows eerily deserted decks and guests wearing high-grade masks while receiving supplies at their doors from crew members in protective gear.
Hantavirus is traditionally transmitted to humans through contact with infected rodents or their droppings, making this potential person-to-person transmission a significant global health concern. Epidemiologists are working around the clock to determine if a mutated strain of the virus has developed the capability to jump directly between human hosts.
International health authorities are monitoring the situation closely as the ship remains under a strict quarantine protocol enforced by local maritime officials. Preliminary reports suggest that the initial victims began showing symptoms of severe respiratory distress and fever shortly after the vessel departed from its last port of call.
Specialized medical teams from the WHO are expected to board the ship later today to conduct extensive testing and environmental sampling. The cruise line has issued a brief statement expressing deep condolences to the families of the deceased and emphasizing their cooperation with all regulatory bodies.
Experts note that while hantavirus pulmonary syndrome is rare, its high mortality rate necessitates an immediate and robust containment strategy to protect the remaining passengers and crew. Global markets and travel sectors are watching the developments with caution as the investigation into the transmission vector continues.
Families of those currently isolated on the ship have reported limited communication but describe a tense atmosphere as medical staff perform regular health checks. The Cape Verde government has established a secure perimeter around the vessel to ensure that no unauthorized personnel enter or leave the designated quarantine zone.