Five Australians who travelled aboard the MV Hondius cruise ship, linked to a deadly hantavirus outbreak, are slated for a three-week quarantine period at a purpose-built facility near Perth. This measure, with a potential for extension, comes as health authorities assess the risk posed by potential contact with the virus. The World Health Organisation confirmed three deaths aboard the ship, with the virus's incubation period stretching up to six weeks.
Authorities are establishing a quarantine operation for Australians returning from the affected vessel. Health Minister Mark Butler confirmed the repatriation plans, with the government prioritizing public health advice in their risk assessment. Passengers will be housed in a facility previously utilized for COVID-era quarantines. Spain's health minister indicated that final evacuation flights, including one from Australia, were scheduled to depart on Monday afternoon local time.
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Background on the Outbreak
The outbreak on the MV Hondius, a Dutch-flagged luxury cruise ship operating in the Atlantic, has resulted in multiple confirmed and suspected cases of hantavirus. Initial reports identified seven cases, including three fatalities. Among the deceased were a German woman and two Dutch nationals. Further complicating the situation, eight individuals who disembarked the ship have also fallen ill. Spanish authorities plan to sail the MV Hondius to Rotterdam for disinfection after disembarking some crew and the body of a deceased passenger. Concerns about potential stigmatisation have been voiced by some passengers on Tenerife.
