Hantavirus Cruise Ship Outbreak 2026: 3 Dead, 12 Countries Tracking Passengers — Is This the Next COVID?

# Hantavirus Cruise Ship Outbreak 2026: 3 Dead, 12 Countries Tracking Passengers — Is This the Next COVID?

> **Quick answer:** Three passengers are dead and at least 8 people are sick after Andes virus — the only hantavirus strain that can spread person-to-person — was confirmed aboard the MV Hondius cruise ship. As of May 8, 2026, a dozen countries are tracking passengers. Experts say it is not the next COVID: Andes virus transmits to fewer than one person on average, versus COVID-19's 15-20. WHO global risk assessment: low.

*This article is for informational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice. Consult a healthcare provider for medical concerns.*

A Dutch expedition cruise ship has triggered a 12-country public health response after the hantavirus cruise ship outbreak 2026 aboard the MV Hondius killed three people and confirmed the presence of Andes virus — a strain unique in all of virology for being the only hantavirus known to spread from human to human. Here is everything confirmed as of May 8, 2026.

## What Is the MV Hondius Hantavirus Outbreak: Full Timeline

The MV Hondius is a Dutch expedition vessel operated by Oceanwide Expeditions, carrying 147-149 people representing 23 nationalities. It departed Ushuaia, Argentina, on April 1, 2026 — a voyage priced at €14,000 to €22,000 per berth — bound for Antarctica and remote South Atlantic islands.