Hantavirus Cruise Ship to Dock in Canary Islands

The luxury cruise ship MV Hondius, which has been hit by a deadly hantavirus outbreak, is preparing to sail from Cape Verde to Europe. Spanish authorities have allowed the vessel to dock in the Canary Islands.

Spain’s Ministry of Health said the World Health Organization and the European Union had requested permission for the ship to enter port in line with international law and humanitarian principles. The ministry also said it would accept a medical evacuation flight carrying the ship’s doctor, a Dutch national who is in serious condition.

A Dutch couple and a German citizen have died since the outbreak began in early April. A British passenger has been evacuated to South Africa, where he is being treated in intensive care.

The ship’s operator, Oceanwide Expeditions, said two crew members also needed urgent medical attention. Another man with a suspected infection has so far shown only a mild fever.

Cape Verde, which was due to be the final stop on the voyage, refused to allow passengers to disembark. After arriving in the Canary Islands, passengers and crew will undergo medical checks and receive treatment before returning to their home countries under the supervision of medical staff and the WHO.

(reuters, bak)