Houthalenaar over het hantavirus dat hem velde: “Helse hoofdpijn, hoge koorts, constant braken” – HBVL

The World Health Organization (WHO) has confirmed six cases of hantavirus among passengers on a cruise ship, with reports indicating that two additional cases are possible. The outbreak has resulted in the deaths of three passengers, according to reporting from HBVL.

Logistical arrangements are currently underway for the repatriation of affected and exposed individuals. Belgian passengers from the vessel are scheduled to return to their home country on Sunday, May 10, 2026. According to HLN and VRT, these passengers will be transported via a plane chartered by the Netherlands.

Public Health Risk Assessment

As part of the evacuation process, health authorities have evaluated the risk of further transmission from the returning passengers to the general public. An evacuation plan has been established to manage the return of the Belgian citizens.

According to Nieuwsblad, the assessment indicates that the risk of these individuals infecting others is miniem (minimal).

Clinical Symptoms and Patient Experience

While the current outbreak is the focus of international health monitoring, the severe physical toll of hantavirus is highlighted by personal accounts of previous survivors. Chris Roosens, a resident of Houthalen, shared his experience of being incapacitated by the virus.

Roosens described the onset of the illness as devastating, citing a combination of hellish headache, high fever, constant vomiting, as reported by HBVL.

The WHO continues to monitor the situation as passengers are processed and returned to their respective countries. The confirmation of six cases and the identification of potential new cases underscore the ongoing effort to contain the spread and understand the source of the infection on the cruise ship.