Evacuation preparations are underway for the hantavirus-hit cruise ship MV Hondius at the Port of Granadilla on the island of Tenerife in Spain, May 10, 2026. (Xinhua/Cheng Min)
Jakarta: Indonesia's Health Ministry Monday said the country is monitoring a foreign national identified as a close contact of a suspected hantavirus-infected passenger from the cruise ship MV Hondius.
The United Kingdom's International Health Regulation National Focal Point informed Indonesian health authorities on May 7 regarding the individual, who currently resides in Indonesia, said Andi Saguni, acting director general for disease prevention and control, during a press conference.
The individual, an employee of a foreign firm in Jakarta, had previously traveled on the MV Hondius. He reportedly shared a hotel in St. Helena and a flight to Johannesburg with the suspected case, Andi said.
Following the notification, Indonesian authorities launched an immediate investigation and coordinated with multiple agencies on May 8, the official added.
The individual is currently under observation at a Jakarta hospital. He remains in stable condition, is asymptomatic, and has already tested negative for the virus, Andi said.
Hantavirus symptoms, including high fever, muscle aches, and respiratory issues, typically manifest one to two weeks after exposure. Severe cases can lead to life-threatening complications.
