NO need to panic, declares the minister of Health, Dr Aaron Motsoaledi, following the confirmed case of hantavirus disease.
On Monday, two British nationals who were aboard the MV Hondius cruise ship en route from Canary Island to Argentina died, having contracted hantavirus, and other two were receiving treatment in South Africa, at a private hospital.
To ally the fear, Dr Motsoaledi and his team, got intouch with the National Institute for Communicable Diseases and Gauteng health authorities, to establish the extend of the disease, including identifying and monitoring individuals who may have been exposed.
It was confirmed “passengers entered SA, and measures are in place to limit any potential spread since contact tracing efforts are on-going’, according to health department.
The World Health Organization is coordinating a broader international response with countries and territories linked to the ship’s route.
“There’s no need for public panic, as monitoring and containment efforts continue,” confirmed the minister.
The Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) whom the likes of popular MSC Cruises is a member, says they’re aware of the reports.
“We are aware of reports regarding cases of Hantavirus associated with a recent voyage on a non-member cruise line. Our thoughts are with those affected,” says Kenny Robinson- Senior Manager, Strategic Communications at CLIA.
“CLIA-member cruise lines are required to adhere to comprehensive health, safety, and medical policies designed to detect, prevent, and mitigate illness.
CLIA-member cruise lines have no known cases of hantavirus,” assures Robinson from Washington DC.
