Hantavirus Outbreak on Dutch Cruise Ship
A Dutch cruise ship experiencing a hantavirus outbreak is scheduled to sail to the Canary Islands, according to Spain's health ministry.
Authorities in Spain are currently assessing which passengers require urgent evacuation from Cape Verde, where the vessel is presently docked.
The remaining passengers are expected to continue their journey to the Canary Islands, with an anticipated arrival within three to four days. The specific port of arrival has yet to be determined, the ministry stated.
Fatalities and Medical Evacuations
Three passengers aboard the MV Hondius have died since the ship departed Argentina approximately one month ago on its transatlantic voyage.
Two crew members, including the ship's doctor, are in need of urgent medical attention and are awaiting evacuation. Additionally, a third individual connected to a German national who passed away is also scheduled for evacuation.
In an official statement, Spain's health ministry noted that the doctor, who is in serious condition, is planned to be evacuated to the Canary Islands today via hospital aircraft.
International Coordination and Response
The World Health Organization (WHO) has indicated that Cape Verde is unable to conduct the medical evacuation operation.
"The Canary Islands are the closest location with the necessary capabilities. Spain has a moral and legal obligation to assist these people, among whom are several Spanish citizens,"
the statement added.
Transmission and Public Risk
Hantavirus is typically transmitted by rodents, but the WHO has noted that transmission could have occurred among "really close contacts" aboard the ship. The organization emphasized that the risk to the general public remains low.
