Kennedy orders American exposed to hantavirus to stay quarantined against her will, WSJ reports

U.S. Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. ordered an American passenger exposed to hantavirus on a cruise ship to remain in quarantine despite medical advice and against her will. The passenger, Angela Perryman, 47, was among 18 Americans quarantined after Andes hantavirus cases were found aboard the MV Hondius earlier this year. The 42‑day monitoring period began May 10, with midnight June 21 marking its end. Some travelers were allowed to complete quarantine at home under supervision, while others remained at a Nebraska facility until completion. The CDC had requested the stay through May 31, and authorities say the remaining passengers are due to depart Nebraska by June 22. Media reports describe Kennedy's order and ongoing debates about quarantine enforcement and patient rights during infectious-disease outbreaks. Perryman said she hoped to return home, but local authorities would not provide monitoring; a CDC medical review suggested the likelihood of symptom development decreased over time. The 42-day timeline aligns with WHO guidance to monitor high-risk contacts for 42 days after exposure, and the situation raises questions about how authorities balance individual liberties with public health safeguards when handling quarantines in international events.