Hantavirus
We are not just a story: Man trapped on a cruise shares emotional appeal on hantavirus outbreak
An American travel influencer aboard the MV Hondius cruise ship broke down in tears as uncertainty gripped passengers following a suspected hantavirus outbreak that has claimed three lives.
In an emotional video shared online, Jake Rosmarin, a Boston-based travel blogger with over 44,000 Instagram followers, expressed fear and frustration over the unfolding situation.
Passenger on board the cruise ship that has a suspected hantavirus outbreak where 3 people have died and 5–6 people are sick cries out, as the ship remains near Cape Verde.
— FearBuck (@FearedBuck) May 4, 2026
Hantavirus is a rare but serious illness usually spread through contact with rodents or their waste.… pic.twitter.com/kjHXulmjj1
“We're not just a story. We're not just headlines. People here have families, blogs, and loved ones waiting for us at home. There’s a lot of uncertainty,” he said, visibly shaken.
#Hantavirus cluster linked to cruise ship travel:
— World Health Organization (WHO) (@WHO) May 5, 2026
Since 1 April when the boat set sail, of the 147 passengers and crew, 7 people have become ill, among whom 3 have died, 1 is critically ill and 3 are reporting mild symptoms.
Based on the current information, including how… pic.twitter.com/KDKwmrNeBt
Fighting back tears, he added, “All we want right now is to feel safe, to have clarity, and to get home.”
“It’s happening to us right now. I’ll share more when I can, but for now, I just ask for your kindness and understanding,” Rosmarin said.
Three dead, several infected
According to the World Health Organization, three people have died and three others have fallen ill following suspected cases of Hantavirus infection on the cruise ship in the Atlantic Ocean.
The WHO confirmed that one case has been laboratory verified, while five others remain under investigation. Among the affected, one individual is currently in intensive care in South Africa.
Urgent measures underway
WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus stated that the agency is coordinating emergency response efforts, including medical evacuation of symptomatic passengers and a comprehensive risk assessment.
“Rapid, coordinated action is critical to contain risks and protect public health,” he emphasized.
What is Hantavirus?
Hantavirus is a rare but potentially fatal disease transmitted through contact with infected rodent droppings, urine, or saliva. It can lead to severe respiratory complications if not treated promptly.
Ship’s route and current situation
The Dutch-operated cruise liner departed from Argentina three weeks ago and was en route to the Canary Islands. However, it is currently anchored off the coast of Cabo Verde, as authorities assess the situation.
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