What instructions, if any, has the Ministry issued to border officials regarding screening, monitoring, or follow-up for travelers arriving from St Helena, the Canary Islands, or other locations connected to the Hantavirus outbreak?

Answer

I am advised that since 5 May 2026, Health New Zealand has formally requested information from New Zealand Customs for the purposes of contact tracing. I am further advised that the Ministry of Health has provided two updates to the Border Executive Board on the hantavirus situation on the MV Hondius. Additionally, on 8 May 2026, Health New Zealand sent a Border Advisory to Border agencies and local public health services, which provided a summary of the situation.