UK to Quarantine Cruise Ship Passengers in Former COVID-19 Hospital
The World Health Organization (WHO) reported an increase in cases linked to a hantavirus outbreak onboard the MV Hondius, confirming a total of eight cases as of May 8, 2026. This figure includes three fatalities, according to the latest update from the organization.
As per the WHO statement, of the eight reported cases, six have been confirmed to be infected with the Andes virus. Four individuals have been hospitalized, while one previously suspected case was reclassified as non-cases following negative results from polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and serological tests.
In a related development, British health authorities are preparing for the arrival of around 24 passengers from the affected cruise ship. These individuals will be quarantined at a facility previously designated for treating COVID-19 patients, as the National Health Service (NHS) announced.
Hantaviruses primarily reside in rodent populations, but can infect humans under certain circumstances. The WHO is conducting an epidemiological investigation to determine the source of exposure and has deployed an expert alongside a representative from the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control to assist the passengers, crew, and ship operators. The illness primarily manifested between April 6 and April 28, 2026, during a cruise from Ushuaia, Argentina, to Cape Verde.
The symptoms associated with the outbreak include fever, gastrointestinal distress, and a rapid decline into pneumonia and acute respiratory distress syndrome. WHO officials noted that further examinations are ongoing, although they currently assess the global risk of transmission as low.
The MV Hondius was carrying 147 passengers, including nationals from the UK, Spain, and the United States, along with a crew member from the Philippines. On April 24, a number of passengers disembarked in St. Helena, a remote British territory.
In response to the outbreak, the U.S. State Department announced plans for evacuation flights for American citizens aboard the cruise ship, which was initially bound for the Canary Islands. A spokesperson confirmed that the department is working closely with the Spanish government and other federal agencies to facilitate the safe return of their nationals.
Meanwhile, WHO has developed a technical guidance document to help manage the situation aboard the ship and assist countries impacted by the outbreak. Among those affected, an adult male who disembarked at Tristan da Cunha on April 14 is currently stable but isolated until laboratory results confirm his status.
The WHO highlighted the importance of early identification of suspected cases and adherence to infection control measures to protect healthcare personnel and other passengers. Although routine testing of asymptomatic contacts has not been deemed necessary, ongoing public health coordination remains critical.
British health officials reiterated their commitment to managing the situation effectively. Approximately 24 British passengers and crew, including two Irish nationals, will undergo clinical assessments upon arrival at Arrow Park Hospital in Wirral, an institution previously utilized for quarantine during the COVID-19 pandemic.
