The Ministry of Health is awaiting epidemiological data from the cruise ship carrying possible cases of hantavirus in order to decide where it will call
The Ministry of Health has announced on social media that, depending on the epidemiological data gathered from the ship regarding a possible hantavirus outbreak during its stopover in Cape Verde, “a decision will be made as to which port of call is most appropriate”. Various reports suggest that the World Health Organisation (WHO) would have preferred the cruise ship to stop in the Canary Islands. “Until then, the Ministry of Health will not take any decision, as we have made clear to the World Health Organisation,” it stated. Furthermore, the Ministry of Health has indicated that, following a meeting with the WHO, a team of epidemiologists will inspect the vessel this afternoon to assess the condition of those on board, determine whether there are any further cases with symptoms, and identify high-risk and low-risk contacts. “This will aid decisions regarding repatriation procedures and the ship’s route.”
