Canary Islands Prepare for Arrival of Hantavirus-Affected Cruise Ship

Authorities in Spain’s Canary Islands are preparing for the arrival of the MV Hondius cruise ship after several suspected hantavirus cases onboard raised health concerns. The vessel, carrying around 140 passengers and crew, is expected to arrive near Tenerife this weekend under strict health protocols agreed upon by Spanish officials and the World Health Organization (WHO).

Tenerife Authorities Plan Strict Isolation Measures

Spanish authorities say all passengers and crew will be completely isolated upon arrival to avoid any potential public health risk. Instead of docking directly in Tenerife, the ship will remain offshore while passengers are transferred to the industrial port of Granadilla, located away from residential areas.

Officials confirmed that passengers will be repatriated soon after disembarkation. Spanish nationals onboard are expected to travel to Madrid for quarantine and medical observation.

The ship departed from Cape Verde after three people were medically evacuated due to illness. Reports indicate that multiple deaths linked to suspected hantavirus infections occurred during the voyage.

Local Concerns Grow Over Hantavirus Cruise Ship Arrival

The planned arrival has sparked concern among dock workers and residents in Tenerife. Protesters gathered outside the Canary Islands parliament in Santa Cruz, demanding stronger safety measures and clearer communication from authorities.

Union representative Joana Batista said workers were worried about handling an infected vessel without proper information or protection.

Government Seeks to Ease Public Fears

Spain’s civil protection agency has insisted there will be no direct contact between passengers and residents. Officials stressed that local communities would remain fully protected as health measures are enforced.