90-Second Read: After Hantavirus exposures, 3 Kansans complete observation period

The three Kansans exposed to Hantavirus on an international flight following an outbreak on a cruise ship have completed their 42-day observation period. After a recent outbreak on the MV Hondius cruise ship, three Kansans who weren't on the cruise were exposed during an international flight with someone who was on the ship. And this person ultimately got off the airplane, did test positive for Hantavirus and did pass away.

There continue to be no known cases in the state, according to the Kansas Department of Health and Environment. The trio was initially taken to the University of Kansas Hospital in Kansas City for observation, but they were discharged on May 21. They did continue to voluntarily isolate at home through the remainder of the observation period.

They also stayed in contact with public health officials, who continued to monitor them. Top lawmakers had extended the state's emergency declaration through June 7 in case any of the exposed individuals developed symptoms, which would have necessitated medical transportation to a biocontainment unit with access to extracorporeal membrane oxygenation, or ECMO. These three individuals were on a flight with someone who was symptomatic sitting in front of them.