A British crew member in need of “urgent” medical care is preparing to be medically evacuated from the cruise ship at the heart of a suspected hantavirus outbreak.
The member will be evacuated alongside a Dutch colleague after presenting with acute respiratory symptoms, it is understood.
It comes after global health authorities have said the suspected hantavirus outbreak may be transmitting between passengers on board the MV Hondius, but maintained the risk to global health is low.
The boat began a remote expedition voyage from Argentina to Cape Verde on 1 April, during which at least three people have died.
Confirmed cases include a British passenger receiving care in South Africa and a Dutch woman who died on 27 April after disembarking.
The WHO said a total of seven hantavirus cases – two confirmed and five suspected – had been identified on the cruise ship so far.
The government said on Tuesday it is putting “plans in place” for the onward travel of Britons stuck aboard the cruise ship.
Are you or is anyone you know aboard the MV Hondius? If so, please email [email protected]
