The United States government is moving forward with plans to evacuate American passengers from a cruise ship linked to a deadly hantavirus outbreak. Health officials said those being brought back to the country will be transported to a military facility in Nebraska, where they will undergo quarantine and medical monitoring.
The outbreak aboard the M/V Hondius has been tied to at least three deaths and several confirmed infections, according to reports citing the World Health Organization.
Addressing the situation on Friday, Donald Trump said authorities believe the outbreak is being managed effectively and stressed that hantavirus is not easily transmitted from person to person. He said experts familiar with the virus are closely monitoring developments and expressed confidence in the response effort.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention stated that the overall risk to the American public remains extremely low while preparations continue for a government organised medical evacuation flight. Officials emphasised that safely returning US passengers remains the top priority.
Passengers are expected to be flown to Offutt Air Force Base in Omaha before being transferred to the National Quarantine Center at the University of Nebraska for further observation and care.
The CDC also confirmed that health guidance had been issued for affected travellers through the United States Department of State. In addition, teams of epidemiologists and medical specialists have been deployed to the Canary Islands, where the cruise ship is expected to arrive.
According to the agency, specialists on the ground will evaluate each passenger’s level of exposure and determine the degree of monitoring required. Another CDC team will be stationed at Offutt Air Force Base to assist with the health assessment process once passengers return to the United States.
The outbreak reportedly began in early April when a passenger first became ill and has since escalated over several weeks, eventually leading to multiple deaths and growing international concern.
