“Under the DGS guideline on the management of suspected hantavirus cases, even a non-case – that is, a suspected or probable case that has tested negative – "within the maximum incubation period (42 days) after the last exposure to a probable or confirmed case, must be tested again and reclassified accordingly".”

“The DGS guidance defines a "suspected case" as anyone who has shared or visited a means of transport, such as a plane or ship, where there has been a confirmed or probable case of hantavirus infection.”

“Also considered suspected is "any person who has been in contact with a passenger or crew member from the MV Hondius since 5 April 2026 and up to the end of the incubation period (42 days)" and who presents symptoms such as acute fever, muscle pain, chills, headache, or gastrointestinal or respiratory symptoms.”

“Countries such as Germany, Italy, Spain, the United Kingdom and the United States... are dealing with hantavirus cases and are responding in very similar ways, using World Health Organization (WHO) guidance”

“The recommendations include a six-week quarantine for high-risk contacts, PCR testing, strict monitoring, restrictions on movement and maintaining a safety distance of between one and a half and two metres.”