Cruise ship hantavirus latest: Number of confirmed cases rises and more may be reported, WHO says

The World Health Organization said on Thursday that the number of cases linked to the MV Hondius cruise ship hantavirus outbreak has risen to eight, including five confirmed infections and three deaths.

WHO said the virus involved is Andes virus and that the public health risk remains low. The agency also warned that more cases may still be reported because of the incubation period and the ongoing follow-up of passengers and crew.

The update marks a rise from WHO's earlier outbreak notice on May 4, which described seven cases, including two laboratory-confirmed infections and five suspected cases. WHO's latest statement now says five of the eight cases have been confirmed as hantavirus.

The ship, operated by Oceanwide Expeditions, has remained under medical management while evacuations and onward routing are coordinated with authorities. The operator said earlier this week that three people were being medically evacuated and that the ship was being routed toward the Canary Islands.

WHO said the investigation is continuing and that tracing remains under way. Authorities are still working to determine how the first infection was acquired and whether any additional people will test positive after disembarkation.

The outbreak has drawn scrutiny because it developed over time before being identified. WHO said the current risk to the public is low, but the case count may change as testing and follow-up continue.