Statement from the Leader of Wirral Council
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has confirmed the safe return of all remaining British nationals on board the MV Hondius, with passengers now safely transferred to Arrowe Park Hospital.
This includes 20 British nationals along with 1 German national, who is a UK resident, and 1 Japanese passenger who are all are now being monitored at Arrowe Park Hospital. The UK Government repatriated the Japanese passenger at the request of the Japanese Government, and they will complete their isolation in the UK in line with UKHSA guidance.
Leader of Wirral Council, Cllr Paula Basnett, said:
People will be aware that a small number of mostly UK citizens have now been brought to Arrowe Park Hospital while they are being assessed following the hantavirus outbreak on a cruise ship.
I understand local people will be worried and concerned but the health professionals are clear that there is no cause for alarm. This is not COVID-19 and the virus is not easily passed on person to person - these steps are being taken very much as a precaution.
In addition, the UK Health Security Agency has been clear that the wider risk to the general public is very low, and the use of the hospital’s accommodation facility for this will not impact on the work of Arrowe Park Hospital and its treatment of patients - all services continue as usual.
I would urge everyone to be mindful of the fact that these people have been through an incredibly difficult time and are also no doubt worried and afraid and deserve to be supported.
As the local council, we will continue to work closely with the UK Health Security Agency and all partner organisations.
Within a 72-hour period, the passengers will receive clinical assessments and testing from public health specialists from UKHSA and infectious diseases specialists.
Their current condition will be assessed and it will be determined where the passengers can suitably isolate. Passengers will be asked to isolate for up to 45 days upon their return, with regular testing and care provided by NHS and UKHSA.
