Hantavirus Isolation Update, 3rd June 2026
Tristan da Cunha
PUBLIC NOTICE
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has issued the following statement:
"Following a review of evidence, the self-isolation period for contacts of Andes hantavirus cases has now been reduced to 42 days. This aligns with World Health Organization (WHO) guidance.
UKHSA's initial 45-day approach was based on early risk assessment and was adopted until further epidemiological information emerged on the outbreak strain. Subsequent WHO guidance reduced this to a 42-day isolation period, which has now been adopted by most countries, including the UK."
Taking this into account I have amended the isolation for those who are isolating as follows:
| Tristan Cat 3 (high risk) contacts | Exposure | Last exposure date | Isolation until |
|---|---|---|---|
| Islanders who travelled to St Helena | m/v Hondius to St Helena, now in Arrowe Park, UK |
22 April | 3 June |
| Close family contacts | Family of the suspected Tristan Hantavirus case |
02 May | 13 June |
| Hospital Staff | Treated the patient | 06 May | 17 June |
Philip Kendall
Administrator, 3rd June 2026