Hantavirus outbreak on Dutch cruise ship

An outbreak of hantavirus was reported on a Dutch cruise ship in early May. Several people fell ill and some died. The RIVM is monitoring the situation and sharing updates on their website.

The hantavirus is spread through contact with urine, faeces or saliva of infected rodents, such as mice. The disease is rare, but it can make people seriously ill. In some cases, it can kill a person.

The chances of people in the Netherlands getting sick because of this situation are currently very low. International organisations, such as the World Health Organisation (WHO) and the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC), are closely monitoring the situation. Currently, no preventive vaccinations are needed for the disease.

Want to know more about hantavirus? Then check out the information from the RIVM and the National Coordination Centre for Travel Advice (LCR).

Source: WHO
4 May 2026