WHO responds to Hantavirus cases on Atlantic cruise ship, 3 people dead

The World Health Organization (WHO) said on Monday it is working with countries and cruise ship operators to respond to cases of Hantavirus infection identified on a vessel in the Atlantic Ocean. Maria Van Kerkhove, WHO's acting director for epidemic and pandemic preparedness and prevention, told reporters via video that, six suspected cases had been reported, including three deaths.

About 150 people, including passengers and crew, are on the vessel. The ship is currently stationed off the coast of Cabo Verde. No additional symptomatic cases have been reported, though the situation remains under close monitoring.