World Health Organization Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus stated on the 6th that he does not believe the recent deadly hantavirus outbreak on a cruise ship, which has sparked international concern, bears similarities to the early stages of the COVID-19 pandemic.
In an interview with AFP, when asked whether the WHO considered the current outbreak to be similar to the state of emergency at the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, he said: “No, I don't think so.”
He emphasized that the outbreak poses “a very low risk to other parts of the world.”
The cruise ship “Hondius” is suspected to have an outbreak of the hantavirus, with 3 passengers having tragically passed away so far.
Tedros stated that although the WHO has “held several meetings to coordinate partners and respond,” for now, he does not think there is a need to convene an emergency committee meeting regarding the hantavirus outbreak.
He pointed out that officials are making every effort to respond, especially in seeking to safely evacuate the 3 suspected infected individuals from the cruise ship.
He said: “These three patients were evacuated just a few hours ago.”
He admitted that his team “had a somewhat sleepless night” preparing for the evacuation operation.
He noted that medical personnel are now on board, including staff from the WHO, and stated: “We will continue to monitor and support those on board, while also observing the situation outside.”