The World Health Organization’s director, Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, has called on nations to brace for potential increases in hantavirus cases. This comes after authorities in Paris reported that a French woman, who contracted the virus aboard the MV Hondius, is experiencing its most severe form and is now on a ventilator. Tedros expressed gratitude to Spain for its “compassion and solidarity” in accommodating the affected cruise ship. He emphasized the importance of adhering to WHO guidelines, which recommend a 42-day quarantine and vigilant monitoring of high-risk individuals.
During a press conference held in Madrid, Tedros highlighted that while there is currently no indication of a widespread outbreak, the situation remains fluid, and the virus’s long incubation period means more cases could surface in the coming weeks. In Paris, health officials confirmed that the French patient was transferred to intensive care due to a severe cardiopulmonary condition. Dr. Xavier Lescure noted that the 65-year-old patient had pre-existing health issues and is currently on both an artificial lung and a blood bypass to aid her recovery.
Meanwhile, the Spanish health ministry announced that one of the 14 Spanish nationals evacuated from the ship and quarantined at a military hospital in Madrid tested positive for hantavirus. This patient, who initially showed low-grade fever and mild respiratory symptoms, is stable without any apparent clinical decline. The confirmation of this case underscores the potential for further spread among those who were onboard the MV Hondius.
Tedros, appearing alongside Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez, indicated that more cases are anticipated due to the high level of interaction among passengers before the first case was identified on May 2. He noted that the initial case on the ship occurred on April 6, with a significant amount of contact among passengers before infection prevention measures were enacted. Given the virus’s incubation period of six to eight weeks, additional cases are expected as a result of these early interactions.
He further stated that with the evacuation complete, it is now the responsibility of individual countries to manage their citizens’ care. “I hope they will take care of the patients and the passengers, helping them and also protecting their citizens as well,” Tedros remarked, underscoring the importance of national efforts in addressing the potential spread of the virus.