Americans in Quarantine Share Experiences Amid Hantavirus Outbreak

As over 40 Americans continue to remain in quarantine for up to six weeks due to a hantavirus outbreak on a cruise ship, former patients, who were placed in high-security medical isolation units during past viral outbreaks, are opening up about their experiences being isolated from the outside world.

Dr. Kent Brantly, who spent weeks in isolation after contracting Ebola in 2014, reassured those currently affected, stating, “I want the people who are being affected by this, who are in quarantine or have loved ones in quarantine, to feel confident that they are in the best of hands. They are in the best place for care.”

The outbreak, which first emerged on the MV Hondius during its voyage in early May, has claimed three lives and sickened ten. The 18 Americans aboard returned to the U.S. on Monday after being confined to their cabins for several days before moving to designated quarantine facilities for those exposed to infectious diseases.

Two individuals have been under observation at Emory University Hospital in Atlanta. They later joined 16 others at the National Quarantine Unit at the University of Nebraska Medical Center in Omaha. Although none have tested positive for the virus, they might remain isolated for up to 42 days, according to the World Health Organization.

Brantly shared his own journey as the first American Ebola patient treated at Emory. He recalled living in a spacious hospital room with its own bathroom, dedicated to stringent infection control measures. He was monitored continuously, with a nurse always present, and received numerous tests and experimental treatment.

“The medical team was incredibly professional and compassionate,” Brantly remarked. As he regained strength, he participated in physical therapy sessions, enjoyed lighthearted moments like playing Nerf basketball, and discussed various topics with the staff, highlighting how they cared for him emotionally as well.

Many current quarantine patients, like Jake Rosmarin, are finding shades of the same confinement rhythm. Rosmarin, a social media creator from Boston on the cruise for a work trip, is now at Nebraska’s National Quarantine Unit. The facility accommodates 20 single rooms designed for bio-containment, with clean air systems and dedicated lab space.

Rosmarin has been documenting his life in quarantine on Instagram, providing glimpses into his daily routine. His room comes with a bed, a smart TV, and even a spin bike. While the staff delivers meals, he’s also allowed to order takeout, eager to get Chipotle when he spoke to NBC News earlier.

Rosmarin has made his space more homely, adding personal touches and enjoying family care packages. Recently, he celebrated a small victory by making himself an iced vanilla latte using an espresso machine he acquired.

“I can either feel sorry for myself or keep a positive attitude,” he said. “If I am not positive, what’s the point?” This outlook is crucial since he plans to stay at the facility for the entire 42 days to be cautious and ensure public health.

Health officials recommend that individuals in quarantine remain in official facilities but note that self-isolation at home is an option too. Rosmarin felt staying put was wise for himself and others.

He echoed Brantly’s sentiments about the staff, saying they were “amazing” and attentive. Similarly, Carl Goldman, who spent a month in Omaha after contracting Covid-19 on the Diamond Princess in 2020, recounted a comparable experience.

Goldman described his time in a “surrealistic” double-sealed room where everyone wore hazmat suits. He kept himself entertained by pacing and blogging, allowing only a few media interviews a day. Once his condition improved, he was celebrated by the staff and had a birthday surprise waiting for him when he left.

Goldman fondly recalls celebrating with steaks provided by Omaha Steaks after he expressed a wish for them during an interview, illustrating how supportive people can be, even during tough times.

Reflecting on these moments years later, Goldman encourages those currently in quarantine to focus on positive memories and cope with stress as a hindrance to well-being. “Think of it as a long vacation,” he advised. It’s all about perspective, and sometimes, that’s what makes the difference.