Cape Verde Blocks MV Hondius as Passenger Video Shows Fear After Hantavirus Deaths
A passenger aboard the MV Hondius posted an emotional message from the cruise ship as Cape Verde continued blocking docking during a suspected hantavirus outbreak that has left three people dead.
Reuters reported that about 150 people remained aboard the Oceanwide Expeditions vessel while medics worked to evacuate two people with symptoms. Cape Verde has not allowed the Dutch-flagged ship to dock, citing public-health precautions.
The onboard reaction sharpened the human stakes. Reuters identified the passenger as U.S. travel blogger Jake Rosmarin, who said in an Instagram video that passengers were dealing with uncertainty and wanted to feel safe.
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The World Health Organization said the wider public risk remains low and that hantavirus is not easily spread between people. One case has been confirmed in a British man being treated in South Africa, while authorities continue investigating the source of exposure.
The ship may seek disembarkation in Las Palmas or Tenerife if Cape Verde does not clear passengers to leave.
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