A hantavirus outbreak aboard the Dutch cruise ship MV Hondius has left three people dead and at least nine suspected or confirmed cases reported across several countries.

Three infected passengers and crew members were evacuated for treatment in the Netherlands, while health authorities in Europe, South Africa, and the U.S. continue monitoring possible contacts.

The ship, carrying about 150 passengers, is heading to the Canary Islands for inspection and possible quarantine despite objections from local officials.

Experts identified the Andes strain of hantavirus, which is one of the few strains capable of human-to-human transmission, though health agencies say the risk to the public remains very low, CBS News has reported.

Passengers have been advised to stay in their cabins as Spanish, Dutch, and WHO officials coordinate the next steps.