MV Hondius Cruise Ship to Arrive in Canary Islands Amid Hantavirus Outbreak
A Dutch cruise ship, the MV Hondius, currently experiencing a hantavirus outbreak, is set to sail to the Canary Islands, according to Spain’s health ministry. The ship was previously docked in Cape Verde, where officials assessed which passengers required urgent medical evacuation.
Medical Evacuations and Arrival Plans
Two crew members, including the ship’s doctor, are in urgent need of medical care and are awaiting evacuation. A third individual connected to a German national who died is also scheduled for evacuation. The doctor, who is in serious condition, is expected to be flown to the Canary Islands on a hospital aircraft, as Cape Verde lacks the necessary facilities for this operation.
The Canary Islands have been identified as the closest location equipped to handle the medical needs of those affected. Spain’s health ministry emphasized the country’s moral and legal responsibility to assist, noting that several Spanish citizens are among the passengers.
After arriving in the Canary Islands, passengers and crew will undergo medical examinations and receive necessary care before beginning their journeys home. All interactions with those from the MV Hondius will take place in specially designated areas and transport to prevent contact with the local population and protect healthcare workers.
Details of the Outbreak and Passenger Information
The hantavirus outbreak on the MV Hondius has resulted in three deaths since the ship departed Argentina about a month ago. Seven cases have been identified so far, including two confirmed and five suspected cases. The confirmed cases include a Dutch woman who died and a 69-year-old UK national who was evacuated to South Africa for treatment.
The World Health Organization (WHO) has indicated that hantavirus, typically spread by rodents, may have transmitted among close contacts aboard the ship. However, the WHO has stated that the risk to the general public remains low.
Currently, approximately 149 people from 23 countries remain on board under strict precautionary measures. Among them are 23 British nationals, including one crew member scheduled for evacuation. The cruise operator, Oceanwide Expeditions, has stated plans to dock at either Gran Canaria or Tenerife in the Canary Islands, though the exact port has not yet been finalized.