Concern has increased regarding the safety of 149 people aboard a luxury expedition ship in the Atlantic Ocean. Two Indian crew members are also present on the ship. So far three passengers have died on the ship, while eight people have been found infected with Hantavirus.
Hantavirus, one of the rare and dangerous viruses
This virus is counted among the rarest and most dangerous viruses in the world. This expedition ship named MV Hondius is operated by the Dutch company Oceanwide Expeditions. According to company data, there are people from 23 countries on board the ship. Most of these are tourists who have come from Britain, America, Germany and Spain. The crew includes sailors and support staff from the Philippines, Ukraine, the Netherlands and Poland.
Names of two Indians have also appeared in this list. The company has confirmed his nationality, but has not given any information about his health condition or position. Like the rest of the people on the ship, they too are at risk of contracting Hantavirus. Hantavirus is usually spread through contact with rats and other rodents. Its symptoms can range from fever, difficulty in breathing and organ failure.
What do the experts say?
According to experts, the infection can spread rapidly in closed and confined spaces. Oceanwide Expeditions has said it will increase medical assistance and safety measures onboard. However, being stranded in the middle of the Atlantic, it is becoming difficult to provide quick help. After the incident, there is restlessness among the passengers on board the ship and their families. The Indian Embassy is also keeping an eye on the matter.
Till now the company has not shared the identity or contact details of the two Indian crew members. The whole world is keeping an eye on the condition of this ship stranded in the sea and what further steps will be taken to prevent Hantavirus infection.
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