French passenger from MV Hondius tests positive for Andes hantavirus
The traveler was among five French nationals medically evacuated from the cruise ship and placed in strict isolation after arriving in France.
French Health Minister Stephanie Rist has confirmed that a French woman who traveled aboard MV Hondius tested positive for the Andes hantavirus while returning to France.
The woman was one of five French nationals evacuated from the ship on a medical flight. She developed symptoms during the journey, and her condition deteriorated overnight, according to Rist. She was subsequently transferred to a hospital specializing in infectious diseases for treatment.
Rist also announced that French authorities had identified 22 close contacts of hantavirus cases in France and instructed them to isolate.
French Prime Minister Sebastien Lecornu earlier said all five passengers were placed under strict isolation immediately after their arrival in France. He said they were receiving medical care and would undergo testing and health assessments.