The Ascension Island Government (AIG) and Georgetown Hospital advise that tests
conducted by the National Institute for Communicable Diseases in South Africa have
confirmed the Andes strain of hantavirus is linked to the expedition vessel, MV Hondius.
This is the only known variant capable of human-to-human spread. The risk to the
wider population remains low and transmission requires prolonged close personal
contact.
This does not affect our planning or response, which has been based on this
assumption from the outset.
There are currently no symptomatic cases on Ascension Island.
All who may be at risk of exposure are being closely monitored in accordance with
advice and regular consultation from the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA). The
current advice is to self-monitor for symptoms of illness. These include fever of above
37.5°C, fatigue or malaise, coughing, and diarrhoea.
Anyone who develops symptoms is asked to contact the hospital by telephone on
66252 before seeking care.
Georgetown Hospital Healthcare Services
Normal outpatient clinical services have been suspended as a precautionary
measure. However, the public is advised that anyone requiring urgent medical
treatment will be attended to. Hospital staff will be wearing appropriate personal
protective equipment (PPE) as a precaution. This is standard practice, and patients
should not be alarmed.
The risk to the wider community remains low. Transmission of hantavirus is not
associated with everyday social contact.
AIG thanks the public for their cooperation. Further updates will be provided as new
information becomes available.
