Milan, May 9 (LaPresse) – All passengers aboard the cruise ship MV Hondius, where an hantavirus outbreak was identified, are considered “at-risk contacts” and must be monitored for 42 days. This was stated by Maria Van Kerkhove, Director of Epidemic and Pandemic Preparedness and Prevention at the World Health Organization. Active surveillance and monitoring for a period of 42 days is recommended for all passengers and crew members disembarking, she said. The virus involved is Hantavirus, a group of viruses transmitted mainly through contact with infected rodents. The cruise ship involved is the MV Hondius.