In a statement titled “Hantavirus – Statement from the Virginia Department of Health,” the Virginia Department of Health says it is closely monitoring the situation involving the MV Hondius and remains in active communication with federal partners at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Additional information regarding a specific location was not provided.
According to the agency, one Virginia traveler who was aboard the ship has since disembarked and returned home. Officials say the individual is currently in good health and is under public health monitoring. Due to privacy concerns, no additional details about the person will be released.
VDH also stated that fewer than 30 U.S. citizens were believed to have been on board the MV Hondius, with a small number of other potentially exposed Virginians possibly being identified in the coming days.
Health officials say they will continue coordinating with travelers, local health departments, and federal agencies while carrying out recommended public health measures. At this time, VDH says it believes the risk to the general public remains low.
