Cruise ship hit by deadly hantavirus outbreak docks in Netherlands for disinfection

May 18, 2026 - 19:59

A cruise ship struck by a deadly outbreak of hantavirus has arrived in the Netherlands for a full disinfection operation. Health officials have confirmed at least 11 cases of the virus linked to the vessel, with nine of those infections verified by the World Health Organization. The ship was rerouted to the Dutch port after passengers and crew began showing symptoms consistent with the rodent-borne disease, which can cause severe respiratory issues and kidney failure.

The outbreak has raised alarms among international health authorities, as hantavirus is not typically associated with cruise travel. The virus is usually transmitted through contact with rodent droppings, urine, or saliva, and can be fatal in some cases. Investigators are now trying to determine how the contamination occurred on board, focusing on possible infestations in food storage areas or crew quarters.

The ship will remain docked while specialized cleaning crews scrub every surface with disinfectants designed to kill the virus. Passengers who have not shown symptoms have been asked to quarantine in their cabins, while those who are ill have been taken to local hospitals. The cruise line has not yet announced when the vessel will be cleared to resume operations, but the priority remains containing the spread and ensuring the safety of everyone on board.