UK Travelers from Virus-Affected Ship Advised to Self-Isolate

May 7, 2026

66 min

May 7, 2026 00:30

Pair back in UK from virus-hit ship advised to 'self-isolate': officials

## Travelers from Virus-Hit Ship

Two individuals who recently returned to the UK from a cruise ship experiencing a hantavirus outbreak have been advised to self-isolate. The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) emphasized that the risk to the general public is very low. Although neither of the individuals is currently showing symptoms, they are receiving guidance and support from health officials.

## Monitoring and Support

The UKHSA is also monitoring a small group of people identified as close contacts of those on the ship. These individuals are also self-isolating as a precaution but are not displaying any symptoms. One British national, suspected of having hantavirus, has been evacuated to the Netherlands for medical care.

## Repatriation Plans

The MV Hondius, the ship involved, was near Cape Verde and heading towards Spain's Canary Islands. The Spanish authorities plan to begin evacuating passengers on May 11. British nationals on board will be allowed to return home once the ship docks, provided they remain symptom-free.

## Ongoing Efforts

The UKHSA is collaborating with government partners to ensure the safe return and monitoring of British nationals. Meera Chand, the UKHSA's deputy director for epidemic and emerging infections, stated that arrangements are in place to support and monitor those returning from the ship. Contact tracing efforts are ongoing to prevent further transmission of the virus.

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