Three deaths on the luxury Dutch cruise ship MV Hondius have sparked a political dispute as Canary Islands authorities refuse to allow the infected vessel to dock.
Hantavirus Outbreak on MV Hondius
The World Health Organization (WHO) reported the deaths of three people on board the luxury Dutch ship MV Hondius, which departed from Ushuaia in southern Argentina approximately three weeks ago with 150 people on board.
Hantavirus, which is dangerous to human health and life, was detected on the cruise ship. The virus is transmitted through contact with rodent excrement, urine, or saliva, and in rare cases, can be transmitted between humans.
Political Tension Over Port Access
The archipelago’s regional authorities do not agree to the cruise ship docking at a port in the Canary Islands. Regional leader Fernando Clavijo accused the Spanish government of a lack of professionalism and insufficient information to reassure the public or guarantee safety.
Clavijo, a member of the opposition People’s Party (PP), has requested an urgent meeting with Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez to discuss the matter. While Spanish public broadcaster TVE previously reported the ship might dock in Tenerife, the Ministry of Health suggested the vessel continue its cruise without visiting the Canary Islands.
Evacuation Efforts in Cape Verde
Cape Verdean health representative Angela Gomes announced that three passengers from the MV Hondius showing symptoms of hantavirus infection will be evacuated. The first helicopter is expected to depart the archipelago within hours, and a doctor is also expected to board the ship.
The ship is expected to depart from the vicinity of the port in Praia once passengers have received medical care, following strict international safety rules. While the exact destinations for the three passengers were not specified by health officials, local broadcaster TCV reported they are being sent to the Netherlands and the United Kingdom.