India, May 4 -- Health officials are investigating a suspected hantavirus outbreak aboard the polar cruise vessel MV Hondius after multiple passengers fell seriously ill during a voyage across the Atlantic Ocean. The outbreak has now been linked back to the death of Gene Hackman's wife, Betsy Arakawa.

The World Health Organization confirmed Sunday that at least one passenger tested positive for hantavirus, while five additional infections remain under investigation. Of the six reported cases, three people have died and another remains in intensive care in South Africa.

"WHO is aware of and supporting a public health event involving a cruise vessel sailing in the Atlantic Ocean," the organization said. "Detailed investigations are ongoin...