A cruise ship (MV Hondius) reported a suspected hantavirus outbreak three people died, several others infected. The ship was blocked from docking due to health risks. Hantavirus spreads mainly through rodent droppings or urine WHO called it a “public health event” but said global risk is low Countries are coordinating medical evacuation and investigation.
Read the article to know how quickly diseases can spread through international travel
Vocabulary Questions:
- What does “scrambling” mean? “The statement on Monday came hours after global health officials said they were scrambling to investigate the suspected outbreak of hantavirus, a disease primarily found in rodents, on the cruise ship in the Atlantic.” Use it in a sentence.
- What does “harbour” mean? “Officials in Cape Verde have said they will not allow a cruise ship believed to be harbouring an outbreak of a rare respiratory virus to dock in its ports, after the deaths of three passengers onboard.” Use it in a sentence.
- What does “repatriation” mean? “It said it was working with Dutch authorities to organise the repatriation of the two crew members.” Use it in a sentence.
Discussion Questions:
- What do you think should be the priority in this situation protecting the people on the ship or protecting the countries they want to enter? Why?
- If you were a passenger on the cruise ship, how would you feel about being blocked from docking?
- What would you expect from the government? Do you think cruise ships are safe after what happened during COVID-19 and this outbreak? Why or why not?
- How can countries balance tourism (like cruises) with public health safety during possible disease outbreaks?
- In your opinion, who is more responsible in situations like this, the cruise company, the government, or global health organizations? Explain your answer.