Herbosa Clarifies Hantavirus Risk for Filipino Seafarers
Health Secretary Teodoro Herbosa clarified that not all 38 Filipino seafarers aboard the M/V Hondius are considered high risk for hantavirus infection. He made the statement during an online media briefing late Sunday night, May 10, 2026.
Risk Assessment Based on Exposure
Herbosa explained that crew members working in the engine room likely had no contact with the two infected individuals. "The Filipino crew, especially the ones in the engine room, I don't think they were even exposed to these two people. Because if they were in the engine, they most likely wouldn't have encountered them," he noted. He added that those who cleaned the infected persons' rooms or served them in the eating area are considered high risk, while the rest have low exposure risk.
Understanding Hantavirus
Hantavirus is a virus that can cause severe respiratory disease. It is primarily spread to humans through rodents or their urine, saliva, or feces. Human-to-human transmission can occur through close contact with an infected person.
No Need for Separate Medical Evaluation Upon Return
The health chief stated that the 38 Filipino crew members do not need separate medical evaluation upon returning to the Philippines. "By the time they are released, they are disease-free and are considered not infected. So, no need to test them actually when they are released from quarantine," Herbosa said. He emphasized that they will not undergo additional quarantine in the Philippines, as their quarantine in the Netherlands is sufficient.
Quarantine Measures in the Netherlands
On Sunday, May 10, the Department of Health (DOH) and the Department of Migrant Workers announced that the 38 Filipino crew members will be brought to the Netherlands for a 42-day quarantine period. This is part of safety measures adopted amid the hantavirus outbreak on the MV Hondius before they are allowed to return home.
