The St Helena Government (SHG) continues to coordinate with the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) and international partners to manage the ongoing response to the hantavirus. Our priority remains the safety of the community through proactive monitoring and clear public information.
Clarity on Hantavirus Testing Capability
Laboratory personnel deployed to St Helena from the UKHSA are currently exploring the feasibility of performing hantavirus testing on-island. It is important to note that testing for this virus involves complex laboratory techniques and is typically performed only in highly specialised facilities; in the United Kingdom, for example, only one such laboratory exists.
Subject to rigorous quality and safety checks, it is hoped that on-island testing will be available by this weekend, though this cannot be guaranteed at this stage. Due to limited supplies, testing will be strictly prioritised for:
- People with a suspected hantavirus infection (there have been no suspected cases on St Helena to date).
- Weekly screening of higher-risk contacts (those currently in isolation).
Hantavirus testing will not be available on request. It is also important to clarify that a negative test result will not allow a person to exit isolation early. Instead, the testing is intended to provide the earliest possible warning of infection so that appropriate clinical care can begin immediately.
Upcoming Logistics and Relocations
Following recent risk assessments, a flight for the pre-emptive relocation of a small number of higher-risk individuals is scheduled to arrive on Saturday 16 May and depart on Sunday, 17 May 2026 subject to weather. These individuals, who currently show no signs of illness, are being moved to the UK to complete their isolation period in proximity to specialised medical facilities.
Cruise Ship Visit and Maritime Protocols
The cruise ship Azamara Onward, originally travelling from South Africa, is expected to visit St Helena next Tuesday, 19 May. The visit will proceed as normal, with standard maritime health protocols in effect. This includes the mandatory submission of Maritime Declarations of Health and rigorous screening by local officials. Whilst we are sensitive to public concern, it is important to remember that the hantavirus case was a rare and isolated occurrence.
Territorial Status Update
- St Helena: Zero confirmed or suspected cases.
- Tristan da Cunha: One probable case remains stable and is improving.
- Ascension Island: No confirmed cases. Investigations continue for one high-risk contact who developed symptoms; initial tests were negative. As a precautionary measure, pre-emptive relocation efforts are in progress for this individual to be moved closer to medical care and specialised support.
Support for those self-isolating
The Government has agreed a mechanism to support those individuals who are voluntary self-isolating, the details of the support scheme will be announced by the Chief Minister on Friday.
Public Information
The public are encouraged to tune in to the scheduled radio talks tomorrow, Friday, for further updates from Public Health professionals and are reminded to use official SHG channels for the most accurate information. The updated Q&A can be accessed here: https://www.sainthelena.gov.sh/documents/hantavirus-qa/.
If you had direct contact with the MV Hondius and develop a fever or muscle aches, please call the Hantavirus Screening Line on 25949 immediately for guidance.
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