New Delhi, May 8: The Central Health Ministry of India has ramped up monitoring and vigilance following reports of Hantavirus infections on the cruise ship MV Hondius. The government is closely monitoring the situation in collaboration with national and international health agencies.
According to a senior health official cited by NDTV, the Health Ministry, along with the National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC), the World Health Organization (WHO), and other international health bodies, has activated a high-level surveillance mechanism to prevent the potential spread of the virus.
Initial information shared under the International Health Regulations (IHR) framework indicates that there are eight suspected cases of Hantavirus infection on the ship, with laboratory confirmation for five of these cases.
Additionally, three fatalities have been reported since the WHO was informed of the outbreak earlier this month.
Health officials believe that the infections are linked to the Andes strain of Hantavirus, which, unlike many other strains, can spread between humans to a limited extent.
However, officials have stated that the virus typically spreads through prolonged and very close contact, and the global risk is currently considered low.
Despite this, health agencies remain vigilant due to the virus’s long incubation period, which raises concerns about the potential for new cases among passengers and crew members on the ship.
The WHO is currently coordinating an international response under the IHR framework. This includes strengthening diagnostic support, conducting epidemiological assessments, and ensuring the safe disembarkation and onward travel of passengers and crew.
According to information received via IHR channels, two Indian nationals are also aboard the ship. Neither has shown symptoms and they are being monitored under international health protocols.
In light of the situation, the Integrated Disease Surveillance Programme (IDSP) has held a high-level review meeting involving senior officials from IDSP and IHR-NFP India to assess preparedness and the current status.
The Central Health Ministry has stated that it is in continuous coordination with the WHO and other global health partners, and has initiated precautionary public health measures to ensure the safety of Indian citizens.
Arpit Soni has had a passion for journalism since the beginning. Now he has turned this hobby into his profession. Arpit, who is a resident of Udaipur, enjoys editing and writing news related to journalism. He has worked as a Senior Content Producer in several important roles at Bhaskar, Patrika, Pratahkal, Punjab Kesari, and Times. Arpit completed his schooling in Udaipur and Jaipur. He has been working in the media industry for more than 10 years, and his journey is still continuing. ✍️📚
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