The MV Hondius is now in Rotterdam.Image: keystone
A man from the canton of Aargau was on board the MV Hondius, on which the hantavirus broke out. Although he tested negative, he is currently in the hospital. If everything goes well, he will soon be able to go home to quarantine.
May 19, 2026, 4:47 p.mMay 19, 2026, 4:47 p.m
Hantavirus broke out on a cruise ship in April. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), eleven people were infected with the virus and three died.
The passengers were able to leave the ship in Tenerife, while the crew members were taken to Rotterdam and began their quarantine there.
On Tuesday, the canton of Aargau reported that a member of the crew lived in the canton of Aargau. The man tested negative for the virus and is not showing any symptoms. He was flown back to Switzerland by Rega.
Cantonal doctor orders 42-day quarantine
The man was taken from Zurich to the Aarau Cantonal Hospital. He will stay there until another test result regarding hantavirus is available, the message continues. If he remains asymptomatic and the test is negative, he will be sent home to quarantine. The canton writes: “The cantonal doctor orders a 42-day quarantine from the last possible contact.”
The man also has to monitor his symptoms and temperature daily at home. To do this, he must regularly test himself for the virus. He is allowed to go outside for walks, but only if he wears an FFP-2 mask. If symptoms occur during quarantine, a transfer to a university hospital has been agreed. (cri) (aargauerzeitung.ch)