Authorities are anticipating new cases of Hantavirus following the departure of the last passengers from the cruise ship affected by the outbreak. The World Health Organisation has emphasized that this is not a new strain of Covid-19, as three fresh positive cases have been connected to the lethal spread.
As of now, there are at least 11 suspected Hantavirus cases related to the MV Hondius, a virus transmitted by rats. Seven cases have been officially confirmed, with an additional four cases under suspicion. Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, the WHO director general, has indicated that more cases are expected due to the time gap between the initial hantavirus case on the MV Hondius and its identification.
The MV Hondius docked in the Netherlands on Tuesday morning after the final six passengers disembarked, including individuals from the UK, Australia, and New Zealand. The WHO has reported three passenger fatalities, including a Dutch couple aged 70 and 69, and a German national, two of whom were confirmed to have contracted the virus.
A British individual, aged 69, who was hospitalized in Johannesburg, South Africa, is showing signs of improvement but remains unwell. Two other Brits are receiving treatment in the Netherlands and Tristan da Cunha, respectively. Additionally, a Dutch colleague and a German passenger are also undergoing treatment in the Netherlands. A recent case identified by the WHO was reported in France, involving a returning passenger who tested positive.
Moreover, an American and a Spaniard, who were evacuated from the vessel and quarantined in Madrid, have also tested positive for hantavirus. French Health Minister Stéphanie Rist mentioned a woman isolating in Paris with deteriorating health, along with 22 traced contacts.
Nine of the 11 cases have been confirmed as the Andes virus by the WHO during a press conference. Currently, 22 Brits are in isolation at Arrowe Park Hospital in self-contained flats within the premises, ensuring proper care and containment procedures.
Lastly, there are 38 Filipino crew members awaiting repatriation to the Philippines.
