Quarantine Order in Nebraska Sparks Controversy

A cruise ship passenger exposed to hantavirus in early May remains in quarantine in Nebraska, contrary to her wishes and despite a recommendation from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Angela Perryman, 47, is held at the Davis Global Center at the University of Nebraska Medical Center, which houses the National Quarantine Unit.

Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. signed an order on Monday to continue Ms. Perryman’s quarantine. This decision stands even though others held at the facility have been allowed to return home since May 31, with local health officials monitoring them.

In a telephone interview with The New York Times, Ms. Perryman expressed anger and frustration. She tested negative for the virus and reported no symptoms. Ms. Perryman learned about her continued detention when a copy of Mr. Kennedy’s order was slipped under her door.

Dr. Michael Bell, the CDC’s quarantine medical reviewer, recommended a less restrictive alternative for Ms. Perryman. He suggested she could complete her 42-day quarantine at home, with daily remote symptom monitoring and around-the-clock assistance if symptoms developed. Dr. Bell stated, “In my professional judgment, this less restrictive alternative is adequate to protect public health.”