A crying passenger stranded on a cruise ship infected by the lethal hantavirus urged viewers of his video to remember that the people aboard aren't just headlines.
Passenger's Plea for Humanity
"What's happening right now is very real for all of us here," travel influencer Jake Rosmarin said Monday on Instagram. "We're not just a story, we're not just headlines, we're people, people with families, with lives, with people waiting for us at home. There's a lot of uncertainty, and that's the hardest part."
At least three passengers have died in a suspected outbreak of the rodent-borne virus aboard the MV Hondius in the Atlantic Ocean, The Associated Press reported. The nearly 150 people aboard have not been allowed to disembark as the boat sits off the coast of Cape Verde over fears of contamination. The flu-like virus spreads by contact with rodents or their excretions and may spread between people.
Emotional Appeal for Kindness
His voice still cracking, Rosmarin added, "All we want right now is to feel safe" and to get some "clarity."
"Just remember that there are real people behind it, and that this isn't something happening somewhere far away. It's happening to us right now. ... I just ask for your kindness and understanding. Thank you."
Jake Rosmarin issued a heartfelt message on Instagram about the plight of the passengers aboard a ship infected with hantavirus.
Update from the Influencer
The traveler later posted some thoughts in writing on the platform.
"It's taken me some time to settle my emotions, and I didn't mean to worry anyone," he explained. "Right now, the priority is making sure those who are sick receive the care they need, as well as getting to a place where we can safely disembark and access medical support."
"There's still some uncertainty, but it's reassuring to know there is a plan in place, and I hope to be able to share more updates soon," he wrote.
