A traveler from the United States, who was aboard the MV Hondius cruise ship afflicted by a hantavirus outbreak, has been confirmed to have contracted the virus, according to health authorities. Meanwhile, another passenger is experiencing minor symptoms.
The Department of Health and Human Services revealed on Sunday night that these two individuals will be transported in biocontainment units during a repatriation flight. This operation aims to bring back all 17 American passengers from the luxury liner to the National Quarantine Unit located at the University of Nebraska Medical Center.
One passenger has returned a “mildly PCR positive” result for the Andes virus, which has already resulted in the deaths of three passengers on the ship and several illness cases.
The second passenger is currently showing mild symptoms, though it remains unclear if they have undergone testing for this virus, which is primarily spread by rodents.
The HHS stated that the airlift will deliver passengers to the ASPR Regional Emerging Special Pathogen Treatment Center (RESPTC) at the University of Nebraska Medical Center/Nebraska Medicine in Omaha, Nebraska. Subsequently, the passenger with mild symptoms will be transferred to another RESPTC at their final destination.
Upon reaching the treatment facilities, each traveler will receive a comprehensive clinical evaluation and the necessary care and support tailored to their health condition.
The World Health Organization has recommended a 42-day isolation period for the passengers of the ill-fated vessel. A staggering 38% of those who get respiratory symptoms from the disease die, according to the CDC.
This is a developing story. Please check back for updates.
