Cruise ship with hantavirus outbreak to sail to Canary Islands

A hantavirus outbreak aboard a Dutch cruise ship has prompted plans for the vessel to sail to the Canary Islands, according to Spain’s health ministry. The ship, identified as the MV Hondius, is currently docked in Cape Verde, where officials are assessing which passengers need urgent evacuation. Among those on board are two crew members requiring urgent medical treatment, one of whom is reportedly the ship’s British doctor. Both were scheduled for hospital evacuation to the Canary Islands on Tuesday. Additionally, a third individual connected to a German national who recently died was also set to be evacuated.

The MV Hondius departed from Argentina around a month ago and has since been the scene of three passenger fatalities. Seven hantavirus cases have been identified in total, of which two have been confirmed and five remain suspected, based on the latest information from the World Health Organization (WHO). The confirmed cases include a Dutch woman who passed away and a 69-year-old UK national who was evacuated to South Africa for medical treatment. Notably, the woman’s husband and a German national who died on 2 May have not been confirmed as hantavirus cases.

South Africa’s health ministry indicated that the confirmed cases involve the Andes strain of hantavirus, which is known for its potential to spread between people in close contact, marking a significant concern aboard the ship. Despite this, the risk to the general public is considered low, the WHO has stated. Oceanwide Expeditions, the operator of the cruise, reported that 149 passengers from 23 countries remain on board; “strict precautionary measures” are being enforced. Among those on the ship are 23 British nationals, including the crew doctor.

Spain’s health ministry explained that the remaining passengers will continue their journey to the Canary Islands, expected to arrive within three to four days, though the exact port has yet to be finalized. Oceanwide Expeditions explained that the WHO advised against handling the evacuation in Cape Verde due to insufficient resources. Spanish authorities highlighted their legal and moral responsibility to assist those on board, including Spanish citizens. Upon arrival, passengers and crew will undergo medical evaluations and treatment as needed in designated facilities and transportation, which are arranged to avoid contact with the local population, ensuring the safety of healthcare workers

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