The World Health Organization’s Director-General, Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, has urged countries to brace for an increase in hantavirus cases. This call to action comes as health officials in Paris reported that a French woman, who contracted the virus on the cruise ship MV Hondius, is experiencing the disease’s most severe form and is currently on a ventilator. Ghebreyesus expressed gratitude to Spain for its “compassion and solidarity” in accommodating the affected cruise ship and called on authorities to adhere to WHO guidelines, which recommend a 42-day quarantine and diligent monitoring of those at high risk of infection.
During a press conference in Madrid, Ghebreyesus acknowledged the potential for more cases to emerge, given the long incubation period of the virus. Although there is no immediate sign of a larger outbreak, he noted the possibility of additional cases in the coming weeks. Health officials in Paris confirmed that the French patient has been transferred to intensive care, suffering from “the most severe form of cardiopulmonary presentation.” Dr. Xavier Lescure, addressing reporters, mentioned that the 65-year-old patient has pre-existing conditions and is currently on an artificial lung and blood bypass to aid her recovery, though he did not provide further specifics.
In Spain, the health ministry announced that one of the 14 Spaniards evacuated from the MV Hondius and quarantined at a military hospital in Madrid has tested positive for hantavirus. This patient, who initially showed symptoms of low-grade fever and mild respiratory issues, remains stable without signs of clinical deterioration. The ministry confirmed the diagnosis following preliminary tests conducted the previous day.
Ghebreyesus, speaking alongside Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez, highlighted the likelihood of more cases arising due to the interactions onboard the ship before the first case was identified on May 2. He pointed out that the initial case was detected on April 6, and the incubation period for hantavirus spans six to eight weeks. Consequently, the prolonged period of interaction among passengers, especially before infection control measures were implemented, could lead to further cases.
Following the evacuation of the ship, Ghebreyesus emphasized that individual countries now bear responsibility for their citizens, urging them to prioritize the care of both patients and passengers while ensuring public safety. “I hope they will take care of the patients and the passengers, helping them and also protecting their citizens as well. That’s what we expect,” he stated, underscoring the need for continued vigilance and support in managing the situation.