WHO declares hantavirus outbreak on Dutch cruise ship concluded

World Health Organization Director‑General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus announced that the spread of hantavirus is officially finished. The last person who had been exposed on the Dutch‑flagged cruise vessel MV Hondius tested negative and was released from quarantine, and no new cases have been reported since 25 May.

The outbreak, which began in early April when the ship left Ushuaia, Argentina, resulted in 12 confirmed infections and three deaths. Health authorities in 33 countries and territories identified and monitored more than 650 contacts. Tedros said, “We are pleased to announce that WHO considers the spread of hantavirus concluded.”

WHO will continue collaboration with governments and partners to study the virus, coordinating a research effort involving 21 states aimed at improving diagnostics, treatments and vaccine development. The organization thanked Argentina, Cape Verde, the Netherlands, South Africa, the United Kingdom and Spain for their support in safely repatriating passengers and crew.