‘You only have so much space’: the limits of reducing infection risk on cruise ships
The MV Hondius experienced a hantavirus outbreak, resulting in three passenger deaths and additional cases. Experts highlight that cruise ships are particularly vulnerable to infections due to close quarters and diverse passenger backgrounds. Despite efforts to improve safety measures, the inherent design and operational constraints of cruise ships limit the effectiveness of infection control.
- ▪The MV Hondius had an outbreak of hantavirus, leading to three fatalities.
- ▪Cruise ships often serve as hotspots for various infections due to close interactions among passengers.
- ▪Experts emphasize that the engineering limitations of ships restrict effective ventilation and hygiene measures.
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The MV Hondius was hit by an outbreak of hantavirus, only one strain of which is known to pass between people. Photograph: Ramón de la Rocha/EPAView image in fullscreenThe MV Hondius was hit by an outbreak of hantavirus, only one strain of which is known to pass between people. Photograph: Ramón de la Rocha/EPAInfectious diseases‘You only have so much space’: the limits of reducing infection risk on cruise shipsIt is hardly a surprise that outbreaks can occur and experts say many of the factors involved are not easy to changeNicola Davis Science correspondentSun 17 May 2026 10.00 EDTLast modified on Sun 17 May 2026 10.02 EDTSharePrefer the Guardian on GoogleIt was a voyage that promised such stuff as dreams are made of, yet within weeks the Atlantic expedition of the MV Hondius had become…
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