Two Canadian passengers who were on the MV Hondius have returned home before the hantavirus outbreak was confirmed aboard the cruise ship. They are currently residing in Ontario. A third individual, who was on the same return flight, is in Quebec and may also have been exposed to the virus.
Hantavirus Outbreak Details
Health officials have confirmed that all three individuals are asymptomatic. They have been directed to undergo quarantine and are under the supervision of local authorities to monitor for any potential symptoms. Health Minister Marjorie Michel and Foreign Affairs Minister Anita Anand provided this update on Thursday.
Cruise Ship Status
- Four Canadians remain on the MV Hondius.
- Global Affairs Canada has made contact with those passengers.
The Canadian government has established a strategic response team and sent a consular team to Tenerife, Canary Islands, where the ship is headed. Minister Anand stated that consular support will be available upon the ship’s arrival at port, which is expected in a few days.
Health and Safety Protocols
The response team is responsible for ensuring compliance with public health protocols both upon disembarkation and thereafter. More information will be provided as it becomes available.
Correction: Contrary to earlier reports, one Canadian passenger is not in Quebec but in Ontario. The individual in Quebec was only on the same flight back and not on the cruise ship.
