Hantavirus infections have been reported in people across 13 countries on four continents following the departure of the MV Hondius cruise ship from Argentina.
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) confirmed cases of hantavirus in two British nationals, with another suspected case identified on Tristan da Cunha island.
One patient remains on the remote Tristan da Cunha island, while the other two British nationals are hospitalized in the Netherlands and South Africa.
A total of 29 individuals, including seven Britons, disembarked from the MV Hondius cruise ship in St Helena on April 24. Tragically, three deaths have been linked to the hantavirus outbreak onboard the ship.
The UKHSA reported that none of the British citizens currently show symptoms, although they are under close observation. The ship is en route to Tenerife.
Health authorities confirmed the first hantavirus case on May 2, with contact tracing efforts underway in countries such as South Africa, Singapore, and the Netherlands.
The ship is expected to dock in Tenerife, with UK Government personnel ready to assist British nationals. Those without symptoms will receive transportation back to the UK.
The WHO stated that the risk to the public is low, as hantavirus is primarily transmitted through contaminated rodent droppings and not easily spread between humans.
Dr. Abdirahman Mahamud of the WHO emphasized the importance of public health measures and global cooperation to contain the outbreak.
British passengers and crew are advised to isolate for 45 days upon return to the UK, with ongoing support and monitoring by the UKHSA.
Efforts are underway to trace individuals who may have been in contact with confirmed cases, including those in UK Overseas Territories.
Two Britons are currently self-isolating in the UK after returning from the ship, while others remain on remote islands in the South Atlantic.
A repatriation flight is being arranged for passengers and crew, with support from Foreign Office officials and UKHSA teams.
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