WHO: Cruise ship Hantavirus outbreak over, last contact tests negative

(Taipei, July 3, CNA) The World Health Organization (WHO) announced today that the Hantavirus outbreak linked to the cruise ship MV Hondius, which had drawn international attention, has ended, with the last contact person having been released from quarantine.

According to AFP, the outbreak, which originated from the MV Hondius, involved 12 confirmed cases and one probable case, resulting in 3 deaths.

Although the outbreak has now concluded, the work for scientists and experts is just beginning as they try to learn from this event that triggered global alert.

WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus stated at a press conference that the last contact person completed quarantine today, tested negative, and has returned home.

He said, "No new cases have been reported since May 25."

"Therefore, we are very pleased to announce that the WHO has declared this Hantavirus outbreak over."

The cruise ship, flying the Dutch flag, departed from Ushuaia, Argentina, on April 1, visited remote islands in the South Atlantic, including Tristan da Cunha, and then sailed north to Tenerife in Spain's Canary Islands, where the remaining passengers were evacuated.

Tedros said that health authorities in 33 countries and regions worldwide confirmed and traced over 650 contacts.

He also mentioned that the WHO will continue its efforts to understand this outbreak and the virus itself. (Compiled by Yang Zhaoyan) 1150703

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