French evacuee from hantavirus-hit ship tests positive, health minister says

May 11, 2026 - 12:59

A French citizen evacuated from a luxury cruise vessel at the center of a deadly hantavirus outbreak has tested positive for the virus, France's health minister announced on Monday. The individual was among several French passengers removed from the ship after reports of severe illness and deaths among crew and travelers.

The health minister confirmed the positive test result during a press briefing, stating that the evacuee is currently receiving medical care in a specialized facility. Officials have not disclosed the patient's condition but emphasized that all necessary precautions are being taken to prevent further spread. Four other French passengers from the same cruise were also evacuated and are under observation, though their test results have not yet been released.

The outbreak has raised alarm among global health authorities, as hantavirus can cause severe respiratory distress and has a high mortality rate. The ship, which was sailing in South American waters, has been placed under quarantine while local health teams investigate the source of the infection. French authorities are coordinating with international partners to track the movements of all passengers and crew who may have been exposed. The cruise line has suspended operations for the vessel pending a full sanitation and safety review.