Hantavirus Outbreak on Cruise Ship Leads to Emergency Voyage to Canary Islands
Spanish authorities have announced that a Dutch cruise ship, with passengers impacted by a hantavirus outbreak, is scheduled to depart for the Canary Islands, as efforts to address the situation are ongoing.
Spanish authorities have announced that a Dutch cruise ship, with passengers impacted by a hantavirus outbreak, is scheduled to depart for the Canary Islands, while efforts to address the situation onboard are ongoing.
The MV Hondius, operated by Oceanwide Expeditions, was docked in Cape Verde as officials evaluated health risks and the necessity for evacuation.
Spain’s health ministry has confirmed that two crew members, one of whom is a British doctor, are in need of urgent medical attention and are scheduled to be airlifted to the Canary Islands. Another person associated with a deceased passenger was also set for evacuation.
Since the ship set sail from Argentina approximately a month ago, three passengers have tragically lost their lives. Among the confirmed hantavirus cases is a Dutch woman who has passed away, along with a 69-year-old British national who was previously evacuated to South Africa for treatment.
The World Health Organization has reported the identification of seven cases to date, comprising two confirmed infections and five suspected cases.
Approximately 149 passengers and crew members from 23 different countries are currently onboard, adhering to stringent precautionary measures. The ship is anticipated to arrive at the Canary Islands in a few days, where passengers will undergo medical screening and receive additional care.
Officials announced that specific protocols would be implemented upon arrival to minimize interaction with the local community and ensure the safety of healthcare personnel, including measures such as quarantine procedures for passengers and crew, as well as health assessments to identify any potential cases of illness.
Hantavirus is an uncommon yet potentially severe illness usually transmitted through interaction with infected rodents or their excrement. Health officials are diligently observing the situation as the ship proceeds to Spain.
