Eighteen passengers who have spent nearly three weeks in federal quarantine after possible hantavirus exposure might be released on Monday. However, this is contingent upon their state governments’ agreement to monitor them at all times for another three weeks.
This plan surpasses standard protocols used in containing previous virus outbreaks. The enhanced measures could prevent at least two passengers, who are residents of New York, from leaving Nebraska, according to their attorney.
Attorney Steven Hyman, representing the New York passengers, shared that the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) requires local authorities to ensure the individuals remain in their homes. Without this assurance, Hyman’s clients would need to stay in Nebraska for the full incubation period of 42 days.
Federal health officials and the New York State Health Department have not responded to queries regarding the release conditions. The number of passengers opting to leave is still unknown, although one passenger confirmed plans to travel to Florida.
The passengers are housed in the National Quarantine Unit at the University of Nebraska Medical Center. They were aboard a cruise ship linked to a global hantavirus outbreak this month. After their return from the Canary Islands on May 11, they have been under observation. None have shown signs of the disease.
On Wednesday, the CDC initially suggested placing law enforcement officers outside the homes of released passengers. However, following questions about cost and legal issues from state officials, the CDC adjusted their requirement to 24/7 health worker monitoring.