The World Health Organization (WHO) and South Africa’s Department of Health have reported that three people have died due to a suspected outbreak of Hantavirus infection on a cruise ship in the Atlantic Ocean. The deceased included an elderly married couple. Additionally, at least three other individuals are reported to have fallen ill. In a statement issued to the Associated Press, the WHO stated that an investigation into the matter is underway, but at least one case of Hantavirus has been confirmed.

The United Nations health agency reported that one of the patients is currently in intensive care at a hospital in South Africa, and the agency is working with officials to evacuate two other passengers exhibiting symptoms from the ship. Hantavirus is found worldwide and is transmitted through contact with the urine or feces of rats and rodents. This virus garnered public attention last year when Betsy Arakawa—the wife of Hollywood actor Gene Hackman—died from a Hantavirus infection in New Mexico.

Where Did This Dangerous Virus Come From?

Hantavirus is a rare but extremely dangerous infection that is typically transmitted through contact with the urine and feces of rats and other animals. This virus directly attacks the lungs and kidneys and proves fatal in many cases. According to experts, there is no specific cure for this virus. If timely medical treatment is not received, the patient’s condition can deteriorate rapidly.

How ​​Dangerous Is Hantavirus?

The WHO stated that Hantavirus can cause severe respiratory illness. According to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), this virus can cause a severe—and sometimes fatal—infection in the lungs known as Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome. The WHO noted that, although rare, Hantavirus infections can spread among people. Hantavirus does not spread from human to human (with the exception of the ‘Andes virus,’ which is found only in South America). If the feces, urine, or saliva of infected mice dry up and mix with dust, they can enter human lungs when inhaled.

Hantavirus is considered extremely dangerous, as it carries a mortality rate ranging from 38% to 40%. It causes fluid to accumulate in the lungs, making breathing nearly impossible. Symptoms typically begin to manifest within one to eight weeks after exposure to the virus. Early symptoms include high fever, muscle pain, fatigue, headache, and dizziness.