The 38 Filipino crew members of the MV Hondius have safely returned to the Philippines after completing quarantine in the Netherlands, following the detection of hantavirus cases aboard the vessel.
Government Assistance Ensures Safe Return
According to Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) Secretary Hans Leo Cacdac, the seafarers were able to come home with the help of various government agencies, under the directive of President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. The crew tested negative for hantavirus before undergoing quarantine.
Cacdac also stated that the seafarers will continue to receive their salaries for the remaining part of their contracts and will remain employed by the shipowner.
Hantavirus Transmission Under Investigation
Hantavirus is typically transmitted from rodents to humans. However, the World Health Organization (WHO) reported no presence of rats on the ship, prompting an investigation into the possibility of rare human-to-human transmission, particularly involving the Andes strain found in parts of Latin America.
