BVI Hantavirus Risk Remains Low
The Ministry of Health and Social Development is closely monitoring a reported cluster of hantavirus cases linked to a cruise vessel currently outside the Caribbean and says the immediate risk to the Virgin Islands remains low. According to regional and international public health updates, eight illnesses (three laboratory-confirmed) and three deaths have been reported; the Ministry is working with partners including CARPHA and using enhanced surveillance and port health measures to watch for any travel-associated threats.
The Ministry of Health and Social Development is closely monitoring a reported cluster of hantavirus cases linked to a cruise vessel that is currently outside the Caribbean, and officials continue to reassure the public that the immediate risk to the Virgin Islands remains low. Regional and international public health updates show a small number of passengers and crew aboard that vessel have fallen ill.
As of early May there have been eight reported illnesses, including three laboratory-confirmed cases and three deaths associated with the incident, the Ministry said. Ronald Georges emphasized that while the situation is being taken seriously, there is no immediate cause for concern locally. "At this time, the risk to the Caribbean, including the Virgin Islands, is considered low," Dr.
Georges said, adding that the Ministry is collaborating with regional partners, including the Caribbean Public Health Agency (CARPHA), to monitor and respond to potential health threats tied to travel and tourism. The Ministry said it is using enhanced surveillance systems and early-warning mechanisms that can detect illnesses on vessels before arrival, allowing for timely public health response and decision-making.
Port health teams remain engaged in routine inspections and preparedness protocols to protect public health at entry points. Hantavirus is a rare but potentially serious disease that is most commonly transmitted to people through contact with infected rodents or their droppings, urine, or saliva.
Human-to-human transmission is extremely uncommon. Health officials note that the rodent species typically associated with hantavirus are not commonly found in Caribbean environments, which further reduces the likelihood of local transmission to the BVI. Although the overall risk is low, the Ministry is encouraging residents to remain vigilant and to follow basic prevention measures, particularly around rodent control and safe cleaning practices.
The public is advised to: - Seal cracks and holes in homes to prevent rodent entry. - Store food in rodent-proof containers and remove food sources that attract rodents. - Clean up rodent droppings using gloves and household disinfectant; ventilate enclosed spaces before cleaning. - Avoid sweeping or dusting areas contaminated by droppings without a mask to prevent aerosolising particles. - Seek medical attention promptly if flu-like symptoms develop, especially if breathing difficulties occur, and inform health providers about recent travel or exposure to rodents.
The Ministry said it will continue to work closely with CARPHA and other regional and international partners to identify and manage any potential risks early. Protecting the health and safety of residents remains the Ministry’s top priority as surveillance and preparedness measures continue.
For further information, contact the Ministry’s Public Health Communications Specialist Natasha Lettsome-Humphrey at nlettsome@gov.vg or by telephone at (284) 468-2286. For international media enquiries, the Government has provided BVIGovernment@dgagroup.com. For general government services call (284) 468-3701 or WhatsApp (284) 468-9760.
Primary source: BVI Government