The last passengers have departed the cruise ship MV Hondius. Authorities confirmed three new positive cases of hantavirus. These cases are linked to a deadly outbreak on the vessel.
The MV Hondius left Tenerife for the Netherlands. Six final passengers, along with some crew, disembarked. Three passengers have died from the virus. Two of these deaths were confirmed hantavirus cases. An American, a Spaniard, and a French national tested positive after returning home. Seven hantavirus cases are now confirmed. Two other cases are suspected, according to the World Health Organisation (WHO).
This situation highlights health risks associated with international travel. Hantaviruses are typically carried by rodents. However, human-to-human transmission is possible with certain strains. The WHO suspects the Andes strain may be involved. This strain can be contracted in South America. Symptoms can be severe. They include fever, fatigue, muscle aches, and breathing difficulties. Officials state the risk of a wider outbreak is very low. Over 90 passengers have been repatriated from the ship. This occurred after it docked in Spain's Canary Islands.
The ship operator, Oceanwide Expeditions, reported 27 people remain on board. This includes 25 crew members and two medical staff. These individuals are from various countries including the Philippines, Netherlands, Ukraine, Russia, and Poland. Ukraine's foreign ministry stated its citizens on board showed no signs of illness. They will assist with the ship's transfer to the Netherlands. They will then quarantine upon arrival.
The global health response involves monitoring and isolation. The US health department confirmed a second American national showed mild symptoms. Both US passengers travelled back in secure containment units. French Health Minister Stéphanie Rist confirmed a woman is isolating in Paris. Her health is deteriorating, and 22 contacts are being traced. Two British nationals with confirmed cases are receiving treatment in the Netherlands and South Africa. The WHO recommended 42 days of isolation for those leaving the MV Hondius. However, US health officials opted for shorter monitoring periods. They cite the rarity of human-to-human transmission. This differs from COVID-19 protocols.
The implications of this outbreak are significant for cruise line health protocols. It also raises questions about international health guidelines. Decisions about quarantine durations are crucial. These decisions impact passenger and crew safety. They also affect travel industry confidence. The captain of the MV Hondius acknowledged the challenging period. He expressed thoughts for those who have died.