According to the World Health Organisation, a cluster of severe acute respiratory infections was detected in early May on a Dutch flagged vessel travelling from Argentina across the South Atlantic.
Seven cases were identified, including two confirmed Hantavirus infection cases and five suspected infections. Three people have died, one remains in critical condition and three others have mild symptoms.
There are 147 people on board, including 88 tourists and 59 crew members from 23 nationalities. Vietnamese authorities said no Vietnamese nationals have been identified among those affected.
Hanta virus disease can progress rapidly, causing breathing difficulties, respiratory failure, low blood pressure and even death (Illustrative photo: iStock).
Health officials said Hanta virus is an acute infectious disease transmitted from rodents, particularly rats, to humans. Infection can occur through contact with rodent urine, faeces or saliva, or by inhaling contaminated dust in areas where rodents are present.
Symptoms typically appear after two to four weeks and include fever, chills, headache, muscle pain, nausea and abdominal discomfort. In severe cases, patients may develop coughing, breathing difficulties, low blood pressure and organ failure.
The virus can cause serious conditions such as respiratory syndrome or haemorrhagic fever, with potentially fatal outcomes.
There is currently no specific treatment, and care focuses on monitoring and supportive medical intervention.
Vietnam’s health authorities said they are coordinating with the WHO and relevant agencies to monitor developments and prepare response measures, while advising vigilance and preventive steps to reduce infection risk.
