Three individuals linked to a hantavirus-infected cruise ship are currently self-isolating in Ontario and Quebec, according to the federal government. Consular officials are en route to the Canary Islands to meet with the remaining four Canadians still aboard the vessel. Two Canadian passengers disembarked on St. Helena around two weeks ago, alongside a third Canadian who was not part of the cruise, as reported by Oceanwide Expeditions. The Quebec health minister mentioned that the third Canadian, from Quebec, is in isolation due to potential exposure to hantavirus during an international trip. Despite the low risk of transmission, health authorities are closely monitoring the situation.
All three Canadians are asymptomatic and have been following self-isolation guidelines, stated Foreign Affairs Minister Anita Anand. The World Health Organization has received reports of eight cases, including three fatalities, related to the hantavirus outbreak on the MV Hondius, which carries the Andes virus capable of limited human-to-human transmission. WHO Director-General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus warned of a possible increase in reported cases due to the virus’s extended incubation period.
Oceanwide Expeditions confirmed that among the passengers who disembarked on April 24, two were Canadians. Tragically, the ship witnessed three deaths, with the latest occurring on May 2. Quebec and Ontario health ministers emphasized the low risk to the public, with ongoing monitoring and adherence to public health protocols. Dr. Zain Chagla highlighted the importance of proper care and the minimal local transmission threat.
Authorities stress the need for monitoring and preparedness, with a focus on public health measures. The WHO underlines the necessity of close and prolonged contact for virus transmission, particularly among close contacts. Despite the seriousness of the situation, the public health risk is deemed low. The provinces are coordinating efforts to ensure a consistent approach and are ready to address any returning individuals. Monitoring and incubation periods are expected to continue for around 30 days.