The pivotal moment for determining whether hantavirus spread beyond the cruise ship MV Hondius might be May 19th. This perspective was put forth by American scientist Stephen Quay, as reported by the Telegraph.
The infection outbreak originated aboard the liner while it was en route from Argentina to Cape Verde. Currently, nearly ten confirmed cases have been verified, with three individuals succumbing to the illness.
It is noted that there is no direct evidence yet of the virus exiting the confines of the vessel. Nevertheless, experts highlight the complexity of the situation owing to the illness’s extended incubation period, which can stretch up to a month.
According to Quay’s calculations, for individuals infected following contact with the presumed “index patient,” initial symptoms surfaced, on average, after 22 days. Based on this data, a new peak of potential cases could potentially occur around May 19th.
Previously, in the Netherlands, twelve staff members at a medical facility were placed under preventive quarantine following procedural breaches while handling a patient diagnosed with hantavirus.
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