North Korea has expressed concern about the threat posed by the Hantavirus following an outbreak on a foreign cruise ship that has claimed the lives of three passengers. The Rodong Simnum, the official newspaper of the ruling Workers’ Party, highlighted the emergence of the Andes strain of the virus on a ship sailing in the Atlantic Ocean, leading to international worries. The US Centres for Disease Control and Prevention has escalated its response to the outbreak to a Level 3 emergency, activating its emergency operations center in response.
The newspaper advised the public to limit contact with infected rodents, maintain cleanliness both at home and in workplaces, and observe good personal hygiene to minimize the risk of infection. The report came after an earlier announcement regarding the first fatality on the MV Hondius, a ship that had set sail from Argentina. This coverage seems aimed at warning the public about the potential spread of the virus to North Korea, reminiscent of the country’s actions during the COVID-19 pandemic when it closed its borders for an extended period to prevent the virus spread.
During the COVID-19 response, North Korea’s border closure had significant economic repercussions, disrupting trade with key partners like China and Russia. In a separate development, the Embassy of India in Madrid confirmed the safety of two Indian nationals who were on the Hantavirus-affected cruise ship. The MV Hondius, carrying approximately 150 individuals, including the two Indians, docked in Spain without incident. The passengers followed WHO and Spanish authorities’ protocols upon disembarking in the Canary Islands.
The Indian nationals, identified as crew members, are reported to be in good health and without symptoms. They have been transferred to the Netherlands for quarantine under the prescribed health safety measures. The Indian Embassy remains in constant communication with Spanish officials and the two Indian crew members, ensuring their well-being and safety throughout this situation.
