Canadian Passenger on MV Hondius Tests Positive for Hantavirus After Deadly Outbreak

Vancouver, British Columbia, May 17

: A Canadian traveler who was aboard the expedition cruise ship MV Hondius during a hantavirus outbreak in April has tested positive for the rare but potentially deadly disease, health officials in British Columbia confirmed. 

The case has raised fresh concerns after several passengers reportedly developed symptoms following the Antarctic voyage. Hantavirus is typically spread through contact with infected rodent urine, droppings, or saliva and can cause severe respiratory illness. 

Health authorities said the infected individual is receiving medical care and that close contacts are being monitored. Officials stressed that the risk to the general public remains low, as the virus does not usually spread from person to person.

The outbreak aboard the vessel drew international attention after multiple suspected cases were reported among passengers returning home from the cruise. Investigators are working to determine where and how exposure occurred during the expedition.

Medical experts are urging anyone who traveled on the ship and experiences fever, muscle pain, cough, or shortness of breath to seek immediate medical attention. Early diagnosis is critical, as hantavirus infections can rapidly become life-threatening.