Americans exposed to hantavirus on ship enjoy some Nebraska hospitality while waiting in quarantine
Yahoo • • general
Key Points:
- Eighteen American passengers exposed to hantavirus on the MV Hondius cruise ship are quarantined at the University of Nebraska Medical Center in Omaha, with none currently showing symptoms, but their quarantine duration is still under CDC review.
- The Andes virus strain found in this outbreak may rarely spread between people, leading to a recommended 42-day quarantine due to its incubation period of one to eight weeks.
- Passengers were allowed only minimal belongings upon arrival, prompting deliveries of personal items and local treats such as Runzas to make their stay more comfortable, with hospital staff providing special meals and activities.
- Twelve illnesses linked to the cruise ship have been confirmed worldwide, including a recent case in the Netherlands, with three deaths reported earlier; health officials continue to monitor over 600 contacts across 30 countries.
- The CDC is managing quarantine decisions individually, and any new cases will influence ongoing public health responses, while passengers express appreciation for the care and efforts to improve their quarantine experience.