A British expedition guide diagnosed with hantavirus after a cruise ship outbreak has stated he is "doing okay" but remains uncertain about his recovery timeline. Martin Anstee, 56, a former police officer and guide on the MV Hondius, is currently isolated in a hospital in the Netherlands. He told Sky News, "I have no idea how long I'll be in hospital for," and expressed hope to "have a clearer picture" of his symptoms later this week.
Details of the Outbreak
The MV Hondius has been at the centre of a hantavirus outbreak, with three confirmed deaths and five cases reported by the World Health Organization. The virus, typically spread by rodents through droppings, saliva, and urine, can in rare instances be transmitted between humans via the Andean strain. UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) Chief Scientific Officer Professor Robin May described the patient's ability to communicate as a "good sign" and noted he is receiving necessary treatment.
Public Health Response
UKHSA has advised that individuals may need to isolate for up to eight weeks but emphasised the risk to the public remains very low. Two UK nationals who left the cruise before the outbreak was detected are self-isolating without symptoms, and another Briton is hospitalised in South Africa. Professor May stated, "We are working closely with them to monitor them and support their families until they have the all clear."
Investigators suspect the virus may have originated from a couple's birdwatching trip in Argentina, where they could have been exposed to infected rodents at a landfill site in Ushuaia. The UKHSA continues to monitor all British nationals involved and prepare for their return home.
