A leading infectious disease expert has stated that it is “very, very unlikely” the recent hantavirus outbreak on a cruise ship will escalate into a pandemic akin to Covid-19. Professor Emma Thomson, who heads the MRC Centre for Virus Research at Glasgow University, made the remarks as samples from the MV Hondius are being examined.
Outbreak Details
The outbreak on the MV Hondius has resulted in at least 11 reported cases among passengers, including three deaths. Public Health Scotland has warned that a small number of people in Scotland may have been exposed to the virus and is working to contact those potentially affected. Prof Thomson noted that it “wouldn’t be very surprising if we found one or two positive tests in the UK,” adding that such a scenario would align with experiences in other countries.
Expert Assurance
Speaking on BBC Radio Scotland’s Breakfast programme, Prof Thomson emphasized that any cases could be managed “very easily with the existing facilities we have.” She dismissed fears of a large-scale outbreak, stating, “It is very, very unlikely that something like this will turn into something akin to the Covid-19 pandemic.”
Transmission and Risk
The Andes strain of hantavirus involved in the outbreak is the only form transmissible between humans, but Prof Thomson stressed it is “not nearly as transmissible” as viruses like measles. She explained that previous outbreaks in Argentina have been “very, very limited,” affecting only small numbers of people. While the virus is concerning, she said it is not expected to cause widespread problems.
Precautionary Measures
Ten Britons from the South Atlantic islands of St Helena and Ascension, linked to the cruise ship, are being brought to the UK as a precaution to complete self-isolation. The UK Health Security Agency confirmed this measure is to ensure they do not develop the illness.
Research and Treatment
Currently, there is no vaccine or specific treatment for hantavirus. The MRC Centre for Virus Research is investigating whether existing antiviral drugs could be effective and is exploring new treatments for the Andes virus. Prof Thomson noted that 20 passengers from the ship have volunteered for research, saying, “We can look into new solutions for this real problem. There are many gaps, as you know there is no vaccine and there is no treatments.”
