A hantavirus outbreak onboard the Dutch cruise ship MV Hondius has left three people dead and several others infected, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). The outbreak has been linked to the Andes strain of hantavirus, which is the only known variant capable of spreading between people.

The WHO has confirmed five cases of the Andes strain, including a 69-year-old Dutch woman who died after testing positive for the virus. South Africa's health minister has also confirmed the presence of the strain in a British man being treated in Johannesburg.

Passengers onboard the ship have been confined to their cabins to limit exposure, while health officials continue to trace close contacts and monitor possible infections. The WHO has stressed that the outbreak is not comparable to the Covid-19 pandemic, but has urged cross-border collaboration to trace and contain the outbreak.

The Andes strain of hantavirus is mainly found in Argentina and Chile, and is typically spread through close, intimate contact with someone showing symptoms. The virus has an incubation period of up to eight weeks, and experts say the overall risk to the global population remains very low.

The WHO will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates as necessary. The organization has also pointed to an outbreak in Epuyén, Argentina, in 2018 and 2019 as an example of how the virus can be controlled through measures such as isolating infected patients, regular handwashing, and infection control practices. The court will resume hearing on the matter after the WHO completes its investigation.