First Confirmed Case of Hantavirus in France Linked to MV Hondius Cruise Ship

France has confirmed its first case of hantavirus following the repatriation of a passenger from the MV Hondius cruise ship. French Health Minister Stéphanie Rist announced on May 11, 2026, that among five French nationals brought back from the ship, one has tested positive for the Andes variant of hantavirus, marking a notable development in French public health. This variant is particularly concerning due to its ability to transmit from human to human and carries a mortality rate exceeding 40%.

The infected patient's condition has worsened, prompting heightened medical attention. Authorities have identified 22 individuals in France who had contact with the positive patient, and these contacts are currently under quarantine, subject to close monitoring. The five French nationals initially repatriated are isolated in a hospital with controlled airflow to prevent further spread.

Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu is actively overseeing the response and has scheduled a government meeting to monitor the situation closely. Meanwhile, Minister Rist reassured the public that France has sufficient medical supplies to manage the outbreak effectively.

The recent confirmation follows reports of three fatalities linked to the virus on the MV Hondius. An American passenger from the ship has also tested positive. Given the virus's incubation period of up to six weeks, health authorities are emphasizing early intervention to interrupt transmission chains.

This incident underscores the rare but serious risk hantavirus, especially the Andes variant, poses in Europe. The coordinated government response aims to contain the virus, safeguard public health, and provide transparent updates as the situation evolves.