Three passengers have died following a suspected hantavirus outbreak aboard a cruise ship sailing in the Atlantic Ocean, the World Health Organization announced Sunday.

The WHO confirmed one case of hantavirus infection through laboratory testing, with five additional suspected cases currently under investigation. The outbreak occurred aboard the MV Hondius, which was traveling from Ushuaia, Argentina to Cape Verde off the coast of West Africa.

Among those affected, a 69-year-old British passenger is reportedly in intensive care in South Africa, according to health officials. The WHO provided the information to Agence France-Presse on Sunday.

Hantavirus is a rare but serious viral infection typically transmitted through contact with infected rodents or their droppings, urine, or saliva. The virus can cause severe respiratory illness and has a high fatality rate if left untreated.

Health authorities are working to contain the outbreak and investigate the source of the infection aboard the vessel. The cruise ship's route spans thousands of miles across the Atlantic, presenting unique challenges for medical response and passenger care.