This page will be updated as soon as new, relevant information becomes available. Radboudumc will not disclose any further information about the patient or staff members for privacy reasons. Other questions from the media may be submitted via Media@Radboudumc.nl.
*** Update 11 May, 9 p.m. ***
Radboudumc admitted a patient infected with hantavirus on Thursday, May 7. The patient comes from the Dutch cruise ship Hondius.
Staff placed in preventive quarantine as a precaution
At the time of admission, blood was drawn from the patient. This blood was processed according to the standard procedure. Due to the nature of the virus, this blood should have been processed according to a stricter procedure.
In addition, it became clear on Saturday (May 9) that the most up-to-date international regulations had not been applied when disposing of the patient’s urine. Due to the nature of the virus, the urine should have been disposed of according to a stricter procedure.
Because of these circumstances, twelve employees will go in preventive quarantine for six weeks as a precaution, despite the fact that the chance of infection is small.
Ensuring patient care runs smoothly
“Despite the fact that the chance of actual infection is very small, these measures have a major impact on all those involved. We regret that this happened in our umc. We will carefully investigate the course of events to learn from this so that it can be prevented in the future,” said Bertine Lahuis, Chair of the Executive Board of Radboudumc.
“Of course, we will ensure that the colleagues involved receive all the support they need. We have great appreciation for their commitment, and that of their colleagues, to ensure that care for the patient runs smoothly. In the meantime, our umc stands ready to admit any new patients should this be necessary.”
*** End of update ***
*** Update 7 May, 3 p.m.***
The RIVM has confirmed that the hospitalized patient has the hantavirus. The patient has been informed of this.
*** End of update ***
*** Original message ***
Radboudumc has admitted a patient who may be infected with the hantavirus. The patient is from the Dutch cruise ship Hondius. In the ward where the patient has been admitted, appropriate isolation measures have been taken to prevent the spread of the virus, in accordance with internationally agreed protocols. The team is specialized and trained in the care of patients with severe infectious diseases.
Visiting Radboudumc
Patients and visitors are not at risk of infection at our medical center. No special precautions are necessary when you visit us.
More information on the hantavirus can be found on the website (in Dutch) of the RIVM.