Hantavirus infection cluster update
The situation with regard to the cluster of hantavirus cases linked to the cruise ship MV Hondius is an evolving situation which is being monitored closely by the HSE National Health Protection Office and the Department of Health working with international partners including ECDC and WHO.
A cluster of hantavirus cases has been linked to the cruise ship MV Hondius. Three deaths have been reported among passengers and crew, nine cases of hantavirus infection have been laboratory confirmed and other possible cases are being assessed.
Irish citizens travelling on board the MV Hondius returned to Ireland following a successful repatriation through collaborative work between HSE, Department of Health, Department of Defence, and international partners in EU and WHO. They will now isolate for a period of time in a HSE facility, in line with European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) and the World Health Organisation (WHO) recommendations.
Because of remaining uncertainties and the long incubation period, it is possible there may be additional cases in former passengers and crew in the coming weeks. However, the risk to Ireland remains very low.
Updated information on hantavirus is available on the HPSC website: Hantavirus - frequently asked questions and on the ECDC website: Hantavirus infection.
Previous updates
11 May 2026
A cluster of hantavirus cases has been linked to the cruise ship MV Hondius. Three deaths have been reported among passengers and crew, seven cases of hantavirus infection have been laboratory confirmed and other possible cases are being assessed.
Irish citizens travelling on board the MV Hondius have now returned to Ireland and will isolate for a period of time in a HSE facility, in line with European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) and the World Health Organisation (WHO) guidance.
The return of passengers and crew from MV Hondius was carefully planned and guided by public health authorities to ensure safety for everyone - these measures protect communities while respecting the dignity and wellbeing of those returning home.
The risk to Ireland is considered very low.
Updated information on hantavirus is available on the and on the ECDC website: Hantavirus infection.
7 May 2026
There have been reports of a cluster of cases of illness, including three deaths, among passengers and crew on board the cruise ship MV Hondius. Five cases of hantavirus infection have been laboratory confirmed and other possible cases are being assessed. At this time, there is no information to indicate that Irish citizens on board have been affected.
The ship will proceed to the Canary Islands with onboard medical support, followed by medical assessment on arrival to inform decisions on repatriation.
The risk to Ireland is considered very low.
Updated information on hantavirus is available on the HPSC website: Hantavirus - frequently asked questions and on the ECDC website: Hantavirus infection