Health authorities are working to repatriate passengers from a cruise ship after a hantavirus outbreak, with a French woman and an American testing positive for the virus.

First-Ever Hantavirus Outbreak on Cruise Ship

The MV Hondius, anchored in the Canary Islands, has been the site of the first-ever hantavirus outbreak on a cruise ship, according to Maria Van Kerkhove, WHO’s director of epidemic and pandemic preparedness. Three passengers have died so far, but health officials emphasize that the risk to the broader public is low.

French Woman's Condition Worsens

The French woman, one of five French passengers repatriated on Sunday, tested positive for hantavirus. Her health deteriorated overnight in the hospital, French Health Minister Stephanie Rist said. She developed symptoms during the flight to Paris.

American Passengers Evacuated

One of 17 American passengers evacuated from the ship and flown to Nebraska tested positive for hantavirus but is asymptomatic. Another had mild symptoms. The passengers were taken to the University of Nebraska Medical Center for assessment and quarantine.

Global Repatriation Efforts

Countries around the world are working to bring their citizens home. Australia is sending a plane expected to arrive Monday to evacuate its people and those from nearby countries. Dutch Foreign Minister Tom Berendsen announced a second Dutch flight to bring back more passengers.

Symptoms and Risk

Symptoms of hantavirus typically appear between one and eight weeks after exposure. Despite the outbreak, health authorities continue to stress that the risk to the broader public remains low.