Countries respond to hantavirus outbreak with six-week isolation for returnees
The UK, US and EU are asking citizens returning from the hantavirus-hit MV Hondius cruise ship to self-isolate for about six weeks. Health authorities are also tightening environmental controls due to the rodent-borne transmission risk.
The United Kingdom, the United States and the European Union are recommending that citizens returning from the MV Hondius cruise ship, hit by a hantavirus outbreak, undertake roughly six weeks of self-isolation. The measure reflects the virus's incubation window and late-onset symptom profile.
Hantavirus is spread through the urine, droppings and saliva of rodents. Health teams in Argentina's Tierra del Fuego, the cruise's departure point, are continuing to trace the source. Australia, New Zealand and Chile have also added their nationals to active monitoring programmes covering passengers who disembarked at different ports.
The World Health Organization notes there is no vaccine for the virus, which can carry a high case-fatality rate. Authorities are asking returning travellers to seek medical care immediately if they develop fever, muscle pain or shortness of breath. The outbreak has pushed the cruise sector to review its biosecurity protocols.
More from South America
How worried should we be about the hantavirus outbreak?
A hantavirus outbreak that began in southern Argentina has spread from tourist hubs into neighbouring countries. Experts have weighed in on the transmission routes and the actual level of risk. UK, US and EU officials recommended six weeks of self-isolation for returning travellers.
Mining groups stage antigovernment protest in Bolivia, explosions reported
Mining groups marched in Bolivia on Thursday demanding the resignation of President Rodrigo Paz, with explosions reported during clashes with police. Paz, elected on a platform of economic reform, is facing the first major street challenge of his presidency.
Three dead after monster truck crashes into crowd
A monster truck crashed into a crowd at a show in Colombia, killing at least three people and injuring 38. The incident raises fresh concerns about public safety at large events.