A man from the UK who was rescued from the hantavirus-affected cruise ship has spoken out for the first time on Wednesday.
Martin Anstee, who was evacuated from the MV Hondius, shared with Sky News that he is currently in a stable condition but uncertain about the duration of his hospital stay.
In an interview with Sky News, the 56-year-old mentioned, “I’m holding up. I’m not feeling too unwell. There are still numerous tests pending.”
“I have no clue about the length of my hospitalization. I’m currently in quarantine,” he added.
Mr. Anstee was employed as an expedition leader on the Dutch-flagged vessel. He was airlifted for medical treatment earlier today alongside two others.
Additionally, two individuals who independently returned to the UK from the cruise have been advised to self-isolate, as stated by the UK Health Security Agency, emphasizing that the risk to the general public is minimal.
The World Health Organization reported that the number of confirmed hantavirus infections has now reached five.
The confirmed cases, verified through laboratory tests, include two passengers who were evacuated today.
Previously, there were three confirmed cases and five suspected cases, resulting in three fatalities.
The total number of cases, eight in total, is believed to remain unchanged, with lab tests affirming the presence of the hantavirus in previously suspected cases.
Nevertheless, Spanish health minister Monica Garcia confirmed that all current passengers aboard the MV Hondius are asymptomatic.
The ship is set to proceed to the Canary Islands where passengers will undergo health screenings for potential infections before their repatriation if deemed healthy.
As per an online update from Spanish health authorities, the ship is anticipated to arrive within 72 to 96 hours.
Officials outlined that passengers will be disembarked in a controlled manner with a direct transfer from the port to the airport and subsequent return to their home countries, avoiding any exposure to the general public.