The Caribbean Public Health Agency (CARPHA) has sought to alleviate concerns that the Hantavirus outbreak on the MV Hondius cruise ship could morph into a pandemic.
The outbreak has resulted in at least three deaths, and there has been growing concern that it may lead to Coronavirus-style restrictions and casualties.
A few years ago, the COVID pandemic placed a global pause on lives and livelihoods.
The virus led to over 7.1 million reported deaths worldwide.
Speaking at a press conference in Trinidad on Monday, CARPHA’s Executive Director, Dr. Lisa Indar, acknowledged the fears but stressed that the Hantavirus does not have pandemic potential.
She also noted that CARPHA’s assessment of the virus is in alignment with the World Health Organisation (WHO), which has deemed the overall risk to the public as being low.
Dr. Indar noted that CARPHA will continue to monitor the situation.