The outbreak of hantavirus, an infection that is usually transmitted to humans from rodents, occurred on a cruise ship that was traveling from Argentina to Cape Verde. Though rare, hantavirus may spread between people and belongs to a family of viruses that can cause hemorrhagic fever and acute respiratory illness.

The World Health Organization said one case of hantavirus infection has been confirmed, with five more suspected cases under investigation.

Further three people taken ill, including 69-year-old Briton reported to be in intensive care in South Africa