Canadian MV Hondius Passenger Tests Positive for Andes Hantavirus, Lifting Cruise-Linked Infections to 11
Updated
Updated · NBC News · May 16
Canadian MV Hondius Passenger Tests Positive for Andes Hantavirus, Lifting Cruise-Linked Infections to 11
16 articles · Updated · NBC News · May 16
A Canadian MV Hondius passenger was hospitalized after testing positive for Andes hantavirus, while the passenger’s spouse—also hospitalized—has mild symptoms and remains in isolation.
Samples were sent to Canada’s National Microbiology Laboratory in Winnipeg for confirmatory testing due within two days, and a third person in secure lodging was taken to hospital for assessment as a precaution.
Canadian officials are now tracking 36 people, including four cruise passengers, and say the risk to the general population remains low despite the virus’s severity.
In Washington state, six potential Andes cases are under investigation—five tied to an international flight with an infected Hondius passenger and one exposed on the ship—while U.S. officials said no confirmed Andes cases were known as of Friday.
The latest case brings reported MV Hondius-linked infections to 11 after the cruise sailed from Argentina in April; three travelers have died, including two confirmed Andes cases.
How did a luxury cruise ship become the epicenter of a deadly international hantavirus outbreak?
A deadly hantavirus that spreads between people has reached Canada. Are current quarantine measures enough to contain it?
With no cure for hantavirus, what are the severe, lifelong health challenges that survivors face?
Cruise Ship Hantavirus Outbreak 2026: Public Health Response, Transmission, and Lessons for Global Preparedness
Overview
In May 2026, a cluster of hantavirus cases was linked to the cruise ship MV Hondius, prompting a media briefing by the WHO Director-General. The situation is being closely monitored, with international health organizations like WHO, ECDC, and the U.S. CDC working together to contain the outbreak, implement quarantines, and conduct contact tracing. Although hantavirus is not highly transmittable and lacks pandemic potential, experts stress its serious nature. These coordinated efforts aim to restrict the virus's spread and ensure public safety, highlighting the importance of global cooperation in managing emerging health threats.