AUSTIN, Texas — Two Texas residents monitored for potential hantavirus exposure after traveling aboard a cruise ship have successfully completed their 42-day observation period with no signs of infection. State health officials confirmed Saturday that the individuals are no longer under any public health restrictions or isolation recommendations.
The 42-day milestone marks the longest known incubation period between initial exposure to the virus and the development of physical symptoms.
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The two travelers were passengers aboard the MV Hondius when some passengers became sick from the Andes strain of the hantavirus. The Texas residents disembarked the ship and returned home before health authorities formally identified hantavirus outbreak.
While isolating at home, the passengers were evaluated in person twice daily by public health personnel. They showed no signs of infection throughout the duration of their quarantine.
The successful conclusion of the monitoring period prompted praise from state leaders regarding the high level of cooperation between the citizens and medical teams.
“I’d like to thank the passengers for their willingness to collaborate with public health throughout the monitoring period,” said Chief State Epidemiologist Varun Shetty, MD. “I would also like to thank the many dedicated public health professionals who worked on this situation and work every day to keep their fellow Texans safe.”