Hantavirus Suspected in Cruise Ship Deaths

Three people died and others became ill on a cruise ship in the Atlantic Ocean, according to the World Health Organization and South Africa's Department of Health. Health officials suspect hantavirus as the cause.

The illnesses occurred on an unspecified cruise, and the World Health Organization is working to confirm the diagnosis. South Africa's Department of Health also released information about the suspected outbreak on Sunday.

Hantavirus is a rare, but potentially deadly, disease transmitted to humans through rodents, typically through inhalation of contaminated dust from rodent droppings, urine, or saliva. Symptoms can include fever, muscle aches, and respiratory distress. Specific details about the cruise route, the number of passengers affected, and the current location of the ship remain unconfirmed.