A Dutch cruise ship carrying passengers affected by a hantavirus outbreak is set to sail to the Canary Islands, Spanish authorities have said, as efforts continue to manage the situation onboard.
The vessel, MV Hondius, operated by Oceanwide Expeditions, had been docked in Cape Verde while officials assessed the health risks and evacuation needs.
Spain’s health ministry confirmed that two crew members, including a British doctor, required urgent medical attention and were due to be airlifted to the Canary Islands. A third individual linked to a deceased passenger was also scheduled for evacuation.
Three passengers have died since the ship departed from Argentina about a month ago. Among the confirmed hantavirus cases is a Dutch woman who died, as well as a 69-year-old British national who had earlier been evacuated to South Africa for treatment.
According to the World Health Organisation, seven cases have been identified so far, including two confirmed infections and five suspected.
Around 149 passengers and crew from 23 countries remain onboard under strict precautionary measures. The ship is expected to reach the Canary Islands within several days, where passengers will undergo medical screening and receive further care.
Authorities said special protocols would be in place on arrival to prevent contact with the local population and to protect healthcare workers.
Hantavirus is a rare but potentially serious disease typically spread through contact with infected rodents or their droppings. Health officials are continuing to monitor the situation closely as the ship makes its way to Spain.
Erizia Rubyjeana
