The Ministry of Health, Wellness and Nutrition says Saint Lucia remains at low risk for hantavirus transmission as officials closely monitor an outbreak linked to a cruise ship.
The outbreak aboard the MV Hondius, which departed Argentina on April 1 carrying passengers and crew from 28 countries, has resulted in nine reported cases of hantavirus, including three deaths, as of May 11. Of the nine cases, five have been laboratory confirmed, while investigations remain ongoing to identify additional cases and prevent further spread of the virus.
In a statement on Tuesday, National Epidemiologist Dr Michelle Francois confirmed: “At present, Saint Lucia is considered to be at low risk for hantavirus transmission…. At this time, there are no suspected or confirmed cases of virus in Saint Lucia.”
She added that countries whose nationals disembarked from the vessel are working closely with international public health authorities to monitor passengers and crew for signs and symptoms of the virus.
Dr Francois also reported that health authorities have also been informed that a Caribbean national who was on board the vessel may have been exposed. However, official communication from the relevant country indicated there are currently no suspected or confirmed cases there.
According to the epidemiologist, the World Health Organisation has assessed the overall public health risk as low, though additional cases could still emerge because of the virus’ incubation period.
Hantavirus is primarily spread to humans through contact with the urine, droppings or saliva of infected rodents. Limited person-to-person transmission has only been documented with the Andes virus strain, which is linked to the current outbreak, and generally requires close and prolonged contact with an infected individual.
Symptoms of hantavirus may include fever, headache, muscle aches, abdominal pain, nausea and vomiting. In severe cases, the illness can rapidly progress to coughing, shortness of breath, fluid build-up in the lungs and shock.
The Ministry of Health, Wellness and Nutrition is advising people travelling to affected areas to avoid rodent-infested spaces where possible.
Individuals cleaning rodent-contaminated areas are also urged to wear protective gear, including face masks and gloves, and to use disinfectants to reduce exposure to airborne particles that may carry the virus.
The Ministry of Health said it will continue monitoring developments related to the outbreak and provide updates to the public as needed.
