3 dead on cruise ship amid suspected virus outbreak

Three individuals have died aboard a cruise ship in the Atlantic Ocean due to a suspected outbreak of Hantavirus.

According to the World Health Organization, one case has been confirmed, while five others are considered suspected infections on board the MV Hondius.

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A 69-year-old UK national is currently in intensive care in Johannesburg, South Africa, and local officials say the patient has contracted the virus.

The UK Foreign Office is monitoring the situation and ensuring support for British nationals.

The vessel had traveled from Argentina and was en route to Cape Verde.

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Hantavirus is typically transmitted to humans through contact with rodent droppings, saliva, or urine, and can cause severe respiratory illness. In rare cases, it may also be transmitted from person to person.