Cruise Ship with Hantavirus Cases Nears Tenerife for Passenger Repatriation

The MV Hondius, a cruise ship linked to a hantavirus outbreak, is nearing the Canary Islands, where 147 passengers will be evacuated in a coordinated operation involving multiple countries. Three deaths have been associated with the outbreak since the ship left Argentina last month, prompting health officials to ensure that disembarkation is managed carefully. Passengers will be tested for symptoms before being sent home, with 17 Americans transported to the University of Nebraska Medical Center for monitoring. The operation has raised concerns among local port workers and officials regarding health risks and communication. The ship will continue to Rotterdam after the evacuation.

Key Details: • Passengers will be evacuated by nationality in small groups of 10. • 17 American passengers will undergo monitoring for 42 days at the University of Nebraska Medical Center. • Spanish passengers will be tested and isolated in a military hospital upon arrival. • The ship will be disinfected after crew disembarkation in Rotterdam.