What to know about Nebraska’s National Quarantine Unit as it prepares to bring in hantavirus cruise ship passengers
America’s National Quarantine Unit in Omaha, Nebraska is gearing up to welcome 17 U.S. passengers from the M/V Hondius cruise ship, which was at the center of a hantavirus outbreak. The facility, managed by Nebraska Medicine and the University of Nebraska Medical Center, is fully equipped to ensure the safety and well-being of these passengers.
Dr. John Lowe, the director of the Global Center for Health Security at the University of Nebraska Medical Center, expressed readiness to assist the passengers upon their arrival. He emphasized that the quarantine period for the passengers has not been defined yet. The facility, which opened in November 2019, was specifically designed to handle highly contagious outbreaks like the hantavirus.
The National Quarantine Unit, funded by a $20 million grant from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, boasts individual negative air pressure systems in each of its 20 beds. This feature ensures the safe housing of individuals exposed to hazardous communicable diseases. Dr. Lowe assured that the passengers would not require transportation by EMS teams if they show no symptoms before arriving at the facility.
Dr. Michael Wadman, the director of the National Quarantine Unit, mentioned that the passengers would have certain freedoms during their stay, including making video calls, phone calls, and access to exercise equipment. The quarantine period will be determined upon their arrival, followed by an epidemiological investigation.
The facility also houses a six-bed national biocontainment training center, complete with a simulated biocontainment unit for advanced experiential training. This high-fidelity simulation center includes a mock lab and autoclave, providing a comprehensive training environment for healthcare professionals.
Nebraska Medicine and UNMC highlighted that the facility is staffed with a team of highly skilled nurses, physicians, and allied health professionals who undergo regular training in infection prevention and control processes. The facility’s dedication to preparedness and response is evident in its commitment to maintaining a high standard of care for patients with high-consequence infectious diseases.
Dr. Angela Hewlett, the director of the biocontainment unit, assured the public that the situation with the hantavirus is different from the COVID-19 pandemic. She explained that the Andes strain of the hantavirus typically spreads through very close contact with another individual. Despite the uncertainties surrounding the outbreak, she emphasized the need for close and personal contact for transmission to occur.
In conclusion, the National Quarantine Unit in Omaha, Nebraska is well-prepared to handle the arrival of the U.S. passengers from the M/V Hondius cruise ship. With its state-of-the-art facilities and expert staff, the facility is equipped to provide the necessary care and support to ensure the safety and well-being of the passengers during their quarantine period.
