Note: Single-source report; awaiting corroboration.
Dr. David Fitter of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) detailed the agency's ongoing hantavirus response during an outbreak linked to the Andes virus. While this virus can rarely transmit from person to person, the CDC considers the risk to the general public low.
The CDC has activated its emergency response in Atlanta with over 100 staff engaged. The agency is closely collaborating with state and public health authorities, federal partners—such as the Assistant Secretary for Preparedness and Response (ASPR) and the State Department—and international health entities in affected countries.
Actions include rapid response after notification via the International Health Regulations (IHR), developing guidance for American passengers on the affected ship, and continuously communicating with those passengers through on-the-ground staff and calls.
A CDC team traveled to the Canary Islands to provide public health expertise and speak directly with American citizens about their potential exposure. Two team members accompanied the repatriation flights to Nebraska, where an additional CDC team met the flight for further assessments.
Dr. Fitter said the CDC's top priority is the passengers from the ship and American communities, and the agency remains vigilant and responsive to this public health event.