A man from the UK who was evacuated from a cruise ship affected by the hantavirus outbreak has spoken out about his situation. Martin Anstee, who was rescued from the MV Hondius, shared with Sky News that he is currently in the hospital and undergoing tests, unsure of how long his stay will be.
Anstee, a 56-year-old expedition guide on the Dutch-flagged vessel, was airlifted along with two others. Additionally, two individuals who independently returned to the UK from the same cruise are advised to self-isolate, according to the UK Health Security Agency, emphasizing that the risk to the public is minimal.
The World Health Organization has reported five confirmed cases of hantavirus, including two recent evacuees from the ship. Previously, there were three confirmed cases and five suspected cases, resulting in three fatalities. The total number of cases remains at eight, as lab tests have validated the presence of the virus in previously suspected individuals.
Despite the cases, Spanish health authorities have confirmed that all current passengers on the MV Hondius are asymptomatic. The ship is en route to the Canary Islands for health screenings before passengers are repatriated if deemed healthy, with an estimated arrival within 72 to 96 hours. Passengers will undergo controlled disembarkation and direct transfers to the airport, avoiding contact with the general population.
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