South African health authorities are continuing contact tracing after a passenger linked to a rare hantavirus case travelled on a flight from St Helena Island to Johannesburg last month.

The Witness reports that Airlink confirmed that the passenger had travelled onboard flight 4Z 132 from St Helena Island to Johannesburg on April 25, after leaving an Atlantic Ocean cruise ship. The airline said it had not been aware at the time that any passengers were ill.

The passenger later died after arriving in Johannesburg, with public health authorities suspecting the death was linked to the rare hantavirus infection.

Airlink said it was informed by health authorities on Sunday, May 3, and immediately assisted with tracing efforts.

In accordance with health protocols, Airlink provided the Department of Health with the names, contact details and seating allocation of the passengers and crew who had been on the flight.

“This was to enable health authorities to commence contact tracing,” the airline said in a statement.

The flight carried 82 passengers and six crew members.

Airlink said it had also begun contacting passengers who were on the flight and advised them to contact the Department of Health through its emergency hotline or email address.

The airline stressed that the safety and well-being of passengers and crew remained a priority and said it continued to operate in line with public health and aviation regulations, as well as guidance from the Department of Health and the National Institute for Communicable Diseases.

Airlink also noted that its Embraer aircraft are equipped with High Efficiency Particulate Air filters, which continuously clean and circulate cabin air during flights.

Airlink is also contacting passengers who were on that flight and advising them to contact South Africa’s Department of Health, either by phone on 076 273 41 55 or by email at pheoc@health.gov.za

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