Jake Rosmarin, a 30-year-old content creator and photographer from Boston, recently embarked on an expedition aboard the MV Hondius, expecting to spend 35 days exploring the South Atlantic. However, his journey took a dire turn as a hantavirus outbreak resulted in three fatalities and numerous illnesses among passengers. Currently, Rosmarin is one of 18 Americans isolated in specialized health care facilities intended for individuals exposed to dangerous infectious diseases.
Rosmarin anticipates spending 42 days at the National Quarantine Unit at the University of Nebraska Medical Center in Omaha. Alongside him are 14 other American passengers, while another individual who tested positive for the virus is housed in the Nebraska Biocontainment Unit. Two additional passengers are under observation at Emory University Hospital in Atlanta, Georgia. Public health officials have stated that the likelihood of the virus spreading to the general public remains very low, and those in quarantine are predominantly healthy individuals being monitored as a precaution.
Despite the challenging circumstances, Rosmarin is trying to maintain a positive outlook during his quarantine. Describing his room as akin to a small hotel suite, he appreciates the amenities, which include a closet, smart TV, refrigerator, and even a stationary bike. He has taken steps to enhance his comfort, such as ordering a mattress pad and new pillows. His mantra for coping with this unexpected situation is to take it one day at a time.
On a recent Tuesday, Rosmarin shared a special moment on social media when nurses brought him an iced Horchata drink with oat milk and vanilla cold foam, which he referred to as “everything I needed, right now.” This small treat was a delightful surprise amid the challenging conditions of isolation.
Hantavirus typically spreads through exposure to rodent droppings and is not easily transmitted between humans. However, the Andes virus linked to this outbreak may be capable of limited human-to-human transmission. The average incubation period for symptoms ranges from one to eight weeks following exposure. Despite being in close quarters with sick passengers, Rosmarin reported that he did not develop any symptoms during the cruise.
During the voyage, 11 individuals aboard the MV Hondius became ill, with at least nine confirmed cases of hantavirus infection. The outbreak has been linked to three deaths, including a Dutch couple believed to be the initial carriers of the virus, who contracted it during their time in South America. Following the outbreak, passengers were advised to stay in their cabins, practicing social distancing and wearing masks to reduce the risk of transmission.
In the early stages of the outbreak, Rosmarin had limited physical movement, averaging only 15 minutes outside his cabin each day to refill water and enjoy fresh air. He described the healthcare professionals at the facilities as taking great precautions; they don personal protective equipment, including gowns and masks, when entering his room. Rosmarin explained that most meals are delivered without direct contact.
A burgeoning travel enthusiast, Rosmarin began his global adventures in 2022 after leaving his job as a media buyer. This expedition was made possible through an influencer partnership with the ship's operator, covering his trip's expenses while allowing him to visit remarkable locations, including the remote South Georgia Island, renowned for its King penguin colonies and various species of seals and albatross.
Describing the MV Hondius as an expedition vessel rather than a conventional cruise ship, Rosmarin noted the stringent biosecurity measures in place to protect fragile ecosystems during landings. Unfortunately, his original itinerary of five weeks has been extended to six due to the outbreak, which was not fully understood until close to the ship's planned disembarkation. As he awaits his return home, Rosmarin's fiancé is a source of support, and while she tries to remain calm, he understands her underlying concern amid the ongoing health crisis.
