Dr. Bonnie Henry has issued a statement about the arrival of four Canadians from the cruise ship MV Hondius in B.C.
The four are scheduled to arrive in B.C. on Sunday after travelling on a Government of Canada chartered aircraft along with a quarantine officer.
None of the four has exhibited symptoms of the Hantavirus.
“They will be screened and assessed by local public health officials and transported directly to safe, pre-arranged lodgings, where they will begin an initial 21-day self-isolation period under daily monitoring by public health teams,” said Henry.
“Based on the incubation period associated with hantavirus exposure, this isolation period may be extended to up to 42 days if required.”
During their arrival and isolation period, the four will have no contact with the public. They will be monitored daily to make sure they remain well.
“The Office of the Provincial Health Officer, BC Centre for Disease Control, local public health teams and federal partners, including the Public Health Agency of Canada, Canada Border Services Agency and Global Affairs Canada, have worked closely to ensure all necessary plans are in place.”
The individuals will have access to medical care and support during their isolation period. If symptoms develop, experienced clinical teams will be available to safely handle and care for the patients.
“People in British Columbia may understandably feel concerned by news like this, particularly given experiences during the COVID-19 pandemic.”
“However, it is important to be clear that Hantavirus is very different from respiratory viruses, such as COVID-19. It does not spread in the same way and is not considered a disease with pandemic potential.”
Public health protocols are in place to make sure the public is protected, and the situation is being monitored and managed at every step. “People in British Columbia can be reassured that this can be managed safely and supportively for everyone involved.”
The four people will isolate in B.C. because they have connections with the province.