Union Health Ministry has activated precautionary surveillance measures amid low Global Risk Assessment of Hantavirus cases. Sources said the Health Ministry is closely monitoring the evolving situation relating to reported cases of hantavirus infection onboard the cruise ship MV Hondius. This is being done in coordination with the National Centre for Disease Control, Integrated Disease Surveillance Programme, World Health Organization, and other international health authorities.
Sources stated that as per preliminary information shared through WHO under the International Health Regulations framework, a total of eight probable cases of hantavirus infection have been reported onboard the vessel, of which five cases have been laboratory confirmed. Three deaths have also been reported. WHO was notified of the incident in the first week of this month.
According to WHO, the virus involved is the Andes strain of hantavirus, which is known to have limited capability of human-to-human transmission and generally requires close and prolonged contact for spread. WHO has assessed the current public health risk as low, while indicating that additional cases may be reported due to the relatively long incubation period associated with the infection.
Sources further stated that information received through IHR channels indicates that two Indian nationals are currently onboard the vessel. Both individuals are presently asymptomatic and are under observation in accordance with established international health protocols.
In view of the evolving situation, the Public Health Emergency Operations Centre under NCDC convened a high-level review meeting involving senior officials to assess the situation and review preparedness measures. The Union Health Ministry remains vigilant and is maintaining close coordination with WHO and other international partners. Necessary public health measures are also being undertaken proactively to safeguard the health and well-being of Indian citizens.
