Spanish authorities have confirmed that the cruise vessel MV Hondius has departed the Canary Islands and is heading to Rotterdam, the Netherlands, after Hantavirus cases were detected on board.
The ship left the port of Granadilla in Tenerife on Monday after all passengers were evacuated and repatriated to their respective home countries for quarantine.
Authorities said the vessel is now bound for Rotterdam, where extensive disinfection and sanitization operations are scheduled.
According to officials, seven confirmed cases of Hantavirus were identified among passengers on board, while two additional suspected cases remain under investigation. Three passengers reportedly died during the voyage due to complications linked to the disease.
Hantavirus is primarily transmitted through contact with rodents or exposure to contaminated rodent urine, droppings, or saliva.
The World Health Organization (WHO) stated that the likelihood of a widespread global outbreak remains very limited. The organisation clarified that the virus does not spread in the same manner as Covid-19 and does not indicate the beginning of a new pandemic.
Health authorities continue to monitor the situation while precautionary measures and quarantine protocols remain in place for affected passengers and crew members.
With input from WAM
