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El Paso Doctor's Vacation Turns into Hantavirus Emergency Response

KVIA•Friday, May 8, 2026 at 4:59 AM•CNN

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Dr. Stephen Kornfeld, an Oregon physician, unexpectedly took on the role of ship doctor during a hantavirus outbreak on the MV Hondius while on vacation in Argentina. The outbreak has resulted in five confirmed infections and three fatalities, prompting a global contact tracing initiative. Currently, 146 passengers, including 17 Americans, are en route to Tenerife, where they will disembark. Health authorities are monitoring those on board for potential infection as the virus can have a delayed onset of symptoms. Calls for better support and guidance for the affected Americans have been made, highlighting the need for a coordinated response from U.S. officials.

Key Details: • Dr. Kornfeld began assisting after a passenger fell ill and later died on April 11. • Three fatalities have been reported, including two Dutch nationals. • Passengers are expected to arrive in Tenerife on Sunday. • Health agencies in the U.S., UK, and Canada are tracking potential infections among passengers. • Hantavirus symptoms can take 1 to 6 weeks to appear.

health travel emergency cruise hantavirus

People & Organizations

Donald TrumpCDCWorld Health OrganizationArgentinaMV HondiusJohannesburgTenerifeStephen KornfeldJanelle BynumZurich

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