French authorities have placed eight additional people in hospital isolation after they were exposed to a passenger linked to the recent hantavirus outbreak aboard the MV Hondius cruise ship.
French Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu said the eight French nationals shared a flight with an infected passenger about 15 days ago. None of them are currently showing symptoms, but officials are monitoring them as a precaution.
Patient in Stable Condition
The new cases add to five French citizens who were already isolated after returning from the cruise ship to France on Sunday. Those individuals are being treated at Bichat Hospital in Paris.
According to officials, four of the five continue to test negative for hantavirus. One patient tested positive and remains in intensive care but is reported to be in stable condition.
Cruise Ship Outbreak Sparks International Concern
The outbreak aboard the MV Hondius has prompted health authorities across several countries to trace passengers and monitor potential exposures. The ship recently docked in Spain’s Canary Islands after reports of illness among travelers.
Hantavirus is a rare but potentially serious disease typically spread through contact with infected rodents or their droppings. Symptoms can include fever, fatigue, muscle aches, and breathing difficulties in severe cases.
French health officials said isolation measures are being used out of caution as investigations into the outbreak continue.
For the latest on the hantavirus outbreak, stay tuned to Que Onda Magazine.