Oregon Representative Demands Federal Intervention for 17 Americans Aboard Hantavirus-Affected Cruise Ship MV Hondius

Oregon Representative Janelle Bynum has escalated concerns about 17 American citizens aboard the Oceanwide Expeditions cruise ship MV Hondius, which is anchored off Cape Verde during a hantavirus outbreak. The ship has reported three deaths and over 145 passengers and crew still onboard. Bynum wrote to Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Acting CDC Director Dr. Jay Bhattacharya demanding coordinated federal assistance, citing lack of guidance for Americans seeking repatriation. A volunteer physician from Bend, Oregon, Dr. Stephen Kornfield, is treating affected patients despite the primary ship doctor becoming ill. The vessel awaits clearance to dock in the Canary Islands. WHO officials reported no currently symptomatic cases as of the statement date.