See Hantavirus update – 14 May for the latest update.
Discussions are ongoing regarding options to repatriate a New Zealander on board the MV Hondius cruise ship, in collaboration with our international partners.
Health authorities and consular officials remain in contact with the New Zealander to provide advice and support.
New Zealand’s public health services are well positioned to support anyone returning to New Zealand following possible exposure to Hantavirus. This includes the capacity to support a period of quarantine if that is required.
Our focus is on supporting this individual and protecting the public from any public health threat. We will take steps necessary to protect public health, but it is important to note the risk to the New Zealand public remains low.
Hantavirus is not COVID-19. While the disease can be severe, it is not easily transmissible from human to human and requires close prolonged personal contact.
Further information
The World Health Organization has assessed the global risk of Hantavirus as low.
Travellers should continue to follow advice from the local authorities and their travel providers in the countries they are visiting.
More information about Hantavirus is available on the Health New Zealand website.
