Health authorities are asking countries to stay alert for more hantavirus cases after an outbreak on a cruise ship. The World Health Organization said the outbreak started on the MV Hondius, which was travelling from Argentina to Cape Verde. As of 12 May, there are 11 cases linked to the ship, including nine confirmed infections. Three people have died.

The type of virus is the Andes variant, which can spread between people through close contact. Health experts are recommending a 42-day monitoring period for all passengers and crew members from the ship.

Many people have returned to their home countries, and the ship has left Tenerife with a small crew. Countries are now tracing contacts to help prevent more cases, as there is no vaccine or special medicine for hantavirus. Early detection is important to manage the disease.