Two Irish passengers aboard the MV Hondius cruise ship, affected by a hantavirus outbreak, are safe and well. The minister for foreign affairs Helen McEntee made the statement in County Armagh on Friday after a North South Ministerial Council meeting.

Three people have died in connection with the outbreak. The virus traces to a birdwatching expedition in Argentina that two passengers attended before boarding.

McEntee said her team is in direct contact with the passengers and the Health Service Executive to plan measures for their return home. She noted efforts to bring them back as soon as possible.

The ship departed Cape Verde on Wednesday and expects to reach Tenerife on Sunday morning, though the schedule may shift. Experts state the virus incubation period can last up to six weeks.

Northern Ireland deputy First Minister Emma Little-Pengelly said viruses do not respect borders and cooperation on public health is logical regardless of political positions. Taoiseach Micheal Martin said public health officials on both sides of the border maintain good relationships.