WHO says six MV Hondius hantavirus cases are confirmed, with two suspected

The World Health Organization's latest reporting on the MV Hondius outbreak shows six confirmed hantavirus cases and two suspected cases, revising the balance of infections linked to the cruise ship.

WHO's original briefing on May 7 said eight cases had been reported, with five confirmed infections, three suspected cases and three deaths. But later reporting on May 8 said the agency's updated count now puts six cases in the confirmed category and two as suspected.

WHO said the Andes virus is involved and warned that more cases may still be reported because of the incubation period. The agency is coordinating internationally under the International Health Regulations and has deployed an expert on board the ship to help with passenger assessment and tracing.

Spanish reports say authorities are preparing disembarkation and tracing measures as the vessel approaches Tenerife. The focus now is on confirming the remaining suspected cases, monitoring passengers and contacts, and managing the ship's arrival.

The outbreak remains under active investigation, with further updates possible as testing and tracing continue.