Hantavirus Outbreak Update: UK Nationals Begin Home Isolation After Hospital Stay

By: Shawn
‎The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has confirmed that six people linked to the hantavirus outbreak can continue their 45-day isolation period at home after receiving their latest negative test results.
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‎Officials also stated that the remaining individuals being monitored at the Merseyside hospital “remain asymptomatic.”
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‎UKHSA says six people exposed to hantavirus can continue isolation at home after negative test results.
‎AFP

‎The agency further revealed that a medic on Ascension Island in the South Atlantic developed symptoms but tested negative for hantavirus.
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‎Professor Robin May, chief scientific officer at the UKHSA, said: “Our teams are working closely with FCDO colleagues and leaders on Ascension Island to repatriate British nationals who are currently isolating on the island.
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‎“Testing is under way to confirm the cause of illness for the person displaying symptoms and we will take all necessary action to support this person and the wider island population whilst continuing to protect public health in England and UK overseas territories.
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‎“Once again I must commend those who have co-operated so selflessly with the isolation arrangements at Arrowe Park, and we are pleased that they will now begin to return home to isolate after a very unsettling period for all involved.
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‎“Thanks also to the NHS and UKHSA colleagues caring for them throughout their time there.
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‎“Together this has been an incredible demonstration of international efforts to contain the outbreak.
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‎“Our priority remains to ensure everyone is safe and well supported, wherever they complete their isolation, and our teams will continue to work closely with all of those affected by this outbreak.”
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‎According to officials, 11 hantavirus cases and three deaths have so far been linked to the cruise ship that departed from Argentina for Cape Verde on April 1.
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‎The report also stated that around ten British nationals from South Atlantic islands connected to the outbreak are expected to be brought to the UK.

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