“Be vigilant but no need for panic” CARPHA Boss says Hantavirus strain linked to MV Hondius ship not present in region

Amidst global panic over the deadly hantavirus outbreak on the MV Hondius cruise ship, Caribbean health experts have sought to assure that the region should not be alarmed. 

Among those giving the assurance is the Executive Director of the Caribbean Public Health Agency (CARPHA), Dr. Lisa Indar.

Dr. Indar, who was speaking at a media briefing in Trinidad yesterday, explained that the strain of the rodent-borne virus linked to three deaths on board the cruise ship is not present in the Caribbean. 

She said the Caribbean should remain vigilant and practice good hygiene.

However, Dr. Indar noted that there is no need for panic. 

As at yesterday, there are eight cases of the Hantavirus identified by the World Health Organization (WHO). This figure includes confirmed and suspected infections.