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PRESS RELEASE Profiles International Nigerians Urged to Heighten Vigilance Amid Suspected Hantavirus Outbreak Linked to Cruise Vessel

 

PRESS RELEASE

Profiles International


Nigerians Urged to Heighten Vigilance Amid Suspected Hantavirus Outbreak Linked to Cruise Vessel


Nigerians Urged to Heighten Vigilance Amid Suspected Hantavirus Outbreak Linked to Cruise Vessel


By Daniel Nduka Okonkwo

Human Rights Advocate | Journalist | Publisher, Profiles International


Abuja, Nigeria — May 4, 2026


Profiles International is issuing a public health advisory urging heightened vigilance among Nigerian authorities and citizens following reports of a suspected hantavirus outbreak aboard the Dutch-flagged cruise vessel MV Hondius, currently anchored in Praia, Cape Verde.


According to statements from Oceanwide Expeditions and regional health authorities, the vessel carrying approximately 170 passengers and 71 crew, has recorded three fatalities, one laboratory-confirmed case, and at least five additional suspected infections under investigation. Two crew members have also reportedly required urgent medical attention, while at least one individual is receiving intensive care treatment in South Africa.


The ship departed Ushuaia, Argentina, approximately seven weeks ago, making stops in Antarctica and Saint Helena before arriving off the West African coast. Argentina and Chile are known endemic regions for certain hantavirus strains, including the Andes virus, the only variant documented to allow limited human-to-human transmission, though such cases remain rare.


Hantavirus is primarily transmitted through exposure to infected rodents or their urine, saliva, or droppings, often via airborne particles. The disease can lead to severe conditions such as Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome (HPS) or Hemorrhagic Fever with Renal Syndrome (HFRS), both associated with high mortality rates. There is currently no specific cure or vaccine, making early detection and intensive supportive care critical to survival.


Health authorities in Cape Verde have restricted disembarkation from the vessel while investigations continue. The World Health Organization (WHO), alongside local officials, is reportedly conducting further assessments, including viral sequencing, to determine the nature and transmission dynamics of the outbreak within the confined ship environment.


In light of the vessel’s proximity to West Africa and the potential for maritime traffic into Nigerian ports, Profiles International calls on the Federal Government of Nigeria and the Federal Ministry of Health to take immediate precautionary measures:


Strengthen port health surveillance, particularly for maritime arrivals from South America and affected regions.


Implement rigorous screening and quarantine protocols for incoming passengers and crew where necessary.


Enhance public health preparedness, including rapid response systems for suspected infectious disease cases.


Launch targeted public awareness campaigns to educate citizens on symptoms, transmission risks, and preventive practices.


Engage proactively with international health bodies, including WHO, to ensure real-time information sharing and coordinated response efforts.


While the risk of widespread transmission remains low, especially given that most hantaviruses do not spread between humans, the evolving nature of this incident necessitates caution. Nigerians are advised to maintain proper hygiene, avoid contact with rodents and contaminated environments, and promptly seek medical attention if experiencing symptoms such as fever, headaches, muscle pain, or respiratory distress.


Nigeria’s public health security depends on proactive and coordinated action. Early intervention and vigilance at points of entry are essential to preventing a localized outbreak from escalating into a broader public health emergency.


Profiles International will continue to monitor developments and provide timely updates as more information becomes available.


Daniel Nduka Okonkwo is a Nigerian investigative journalist, publisher of Profiles International Human Rights Advocate, and a policy analyst whose work focuses on governance, institutional accountability, and political power. He is also a human rights activist and advocate, with a strong commitment to justice and transparency.


His reporting and analysis have been featured in Sahara Reporters, African Defence Forum, Daily Intel Newspapers, Opinion Nigeria, African Angle, NewsBreak (local.newsbreak.com), Vanguard Newspaper, Daily Trust Newspapers, and other international media platforms.


He writes from Nigeria and can be reached at dan.okonkwo.73@gmail.com.

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