Spain has agreed to allow the MV Hondius cruise ship to dock in the Canary Islands after a deadly hantavirus outbreak left three people dead and several others infected onboard. The World Health Organization said the ship, carrying nearly 150 passengers and crew, had been stranded off Cape Verde after local authorities refused docking permission over health concerns. Officials are now preparing medical screenings, investigations, and disinfection procedures once the vessel arrives in Spain.
WHO Investigates Rare Possible Human Transmission
Health officials said the outbreak may involve the Andes strain of hantavirus, one of the few versions known to allow limited person-to-person transmission. WHO experts stated that close contacts, including cabin partners and family members, may have spread the virus onboard. The agency confirmed seven suspected or confirmed cases connected to the ship, including three deaths and one critically ill patient receiving treatment in intensive care. Authorities stressed that the overall global risk remains low despite the unusual outbreak situation.
Spain and WHO Prepare Medical Response in Canary Islands
Spanish authorities said passengers and crew will undergo full medical evaluations and epidemiological investigations after docking in the Canary Islands. The WHO noted that Cape Verde lacked the resources needed to handle the health emergency, prompting Spain to step in alongside European health agencies. Several infected passengers are expected to be evacuated for treatment, while others may face quarantine measures and continued monitoring. Officials also plan to disinfect the ship and trace close contacts linked to the outbreak.
Cruise Outbreak Raises Global Health Concerns
The outbreak has drawn international attention because hantavirus infections are typically linked to rodents rather than cruise ships. Experts believe the original infections may have occurred during the vessel’s earlier expedition near Argentina and Antarctic regions before spreading among close contacts onboard. Passengers have reportedly been instructed to remain in cabins while medical teams continue investigations. Health officials emphasized that the virus is not considered a pandemic-level threat but warned that the situation remains under close observation.
