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Cruise Ship Fears: Stigma Over Hantavirus Outbreak
9 May
Summary
- Passengers fear social stigma more than hantavirus infection.
- WHO stresses hantavirus poses very low risk to the public.
- Spanish passengers face uncertain reception upon returning home.
Concern is mounting among Spanish passengers on the MV Hondius, not from fear of contracting hantavirus, but from the potential social stigma upon their return. Sensationalized news reports and online reactions have led some passengers to fear being ostracized. These fears are amplified as the ship approaches Spanish shores, with some groups demanding transparency and protection.
However, health experts, including those from the World Health Organization, are actively dispelling comparisons to COVID-19, emphasizing that hantavirus is not easily transmitted between people and poses a very low risk to the public. The Andes virus, detected on the ship, has a rare potential for human-to-human spread.
Despite official assurances and health explanations, some Spanish officials and groups have expressed unease, calling for strict measures and quarantine for the Spanish passengers. Passengers have described their daily routine on the ship as tranquil, with masks and social distancing observed. They hope to return home with memories of nature, not as pariahs.
The over 140 passengers and crew are expected to begin disembarking soon, with authorities confirming escort guards are a protocol for isolation rather than protection from harm. Passengers have expressed a willingness to cruise again in the future, valuing travel for its connection to nature.
