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.
