What Happened on the Hantavirus Cruise, According to a Doctor on Board

a day ago

Stephen Kornfeld, a medical oncologist and avid birder, was a passenger on the MV Hondius cruise when he stepped in to care for three people suspected of having hantavirus after the ship's doctor fell ill.
At least eight people on the cruise had suspected or confirmed hantavirus cases, with three deaths. The virus was identified as Andes virus, which can spread person-to-person through close contact, such as on a cruise ship.
Kornfeld took over medical duties, managing ill patients with limited resources. The ship lacked advanced medical equipment but had masks and respirators for protection.
The crew implemented COVID-19-like protocols, including masking, distancing, and increased sanitization, to contain the outbreak and keep passengers safe.
Kornfeld became a key source of information for passengers, addressing their health concerns and earning the nickname 'Doctor Steve.' He collaborated with global health experts like the WHO to manage the situation.
The two sick crew members and a companion of a deceased passenger were evacuated. No new symptomatic cases have emerged recently, and the mood on board remains relatively optimistic.
The ship is now heading to the Canary Islands with WHO and European CDC officials on board to monitor the situation. The next challenge is safely repatriating passengers after health assessments.
Despite the outbreak, Kornfeld achieved his birding goals, spotting new species, including a Cape Verde swift, during the trip.

Hasty Briefsbeta