U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has ordered an American passenger who was exposed to hantavirus on a cruise ship to remain in quarantine against her will, according to a report by the Wall Street Journal on Tuesday.
The passenger, whose identity has not been disclosed, was aboard a cruise ship where a case of hantavirus was detected. Hantavirus is a rare but potentially fatal disease transmitted through rodent droppings, urine, or saliva. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) notes that hantavirus pulmonary syndrome (HPS) has a mortality rate of about 38%.
The Wall Street Journal reported that the quarantine order was issued despite medical advice suggesting that the passenger did not pose a significant risk to others. The passenger's legal representatives have argued that the detention is unlawful and have sought court intervention.
HHS Secretary Kennedy, who has previously expressed skepticism about public health mandates, defended the decision as a necessary precaution to prevent a potential outbreak. The case has raised questions about the scope of federal quarantine powers and the balance between public health and individual rights.
As of June 17, 2026, the passenger remains in quarantine. The CDC and HHS have not released further details, citing ongoing legal proceedings.
