Health Chief Says He Expects More Cases of Hantavirus, as Last Remaining Passengers Disembark Cruise Ship

The MV Hondius, a luxury expedition cruise ship operated by Oceanwide Expeditions, has successfully completed the disembarkation of its final passengers and a select number of crew members in Granadilla, Canary Islands. This operation, which took place on 11 May, marked the conclusion of a challenging circumstance involving a hantavirus outbreak on board, as reported by the company.

In total, 122 individuals were safely repatriated, comprising 87 guests and 35 crew members. The disembarkation process began on 10 May when the ship arrived at Tenerife, Spain, and passengers were transported to shore via a smaller vessel. The operation saw additional health precautions taken, including the establishment of a medical tent at the port to screen those disembarking before they boarded their flights back to their respective home countries.

Following the disembarkation, the ship set sail towards Rotterdam, Netherlands, with an expected arrival time on 17 May. Among the final passengers were four Australians, one British national, and one New Zealander. Photographs depicted those leaving the vessel wearing face masks and extensive personal protective equipment, indicative of the broader health concerns amid the ongoing situation.

The outbreak of hantavirus aboard the MV Hondius has raised alarms, with the World Health Organization (WHO) warning of the likely emergence of additional cases. WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus spoke at a news conference, highlighting that since the initial case was reported on 6 April, passenger interactions could lead to a rise in confirmed cases. He noted that the anticipated incubation period ranges from six to eight weeks, increasing health officials’ concerns regarding the viral spread.

As of the latest update, WHO has confirmed 11 cases associated with the cruise, including three fatalities. Of these, nine cases have been identified as being attributed to the Andes virus, which is endemic to South America, and the remaining two are under probable status. Since the outbreak first came to light, no further deaths have been reported.

Reportedly, an American citizen and a French national had already tested positive upon returning to their home countries. Additionally, one individual in Madrid is currently in quarantine after a provisional test returned positive for the hantavirus. Health authorities are monitoring these cases closely to prevent further transmission.

One particularly concerning case involved a French passenger who was evacuated from the Hondius in critical condition. After initial medical assessments did not indicate compatibility with hantavirus symptoms, it was later confirmed that she had indeed contracted the virus, raising concerns for her immediate health. The woman is now receiving treatment in Paris, with 22 contacts traced for precautionary measures.

The US Department of Health and Human Services confirmed that 17 American passengers from the cruise are undergoing repatriation. They are currently being transported back to the United States, with two being placed in biocontainment units as a safety measure due to mild symptoms of the virus. An additional passenger has tested mildly positive, but all necessary precautions are being implemented.

Amid these health concerns, 17 Filipino crew members have already returned to the Netherlands and are undergoing medical evaluations and quarantine. The Philippine Embassy has been closely involved in managing the situation for its nationals.

Despite the seriousness of the outbreak, health officials reaffirm that the risk of a widespread outbreak remains low. They have recommended that anyone who disembarked from the Hondius undergo 42 days of isolation. The situation continues to evolve, and health authorities are prepared to respond to new developments as further cases may arise from the initial outbreak on the ship.

With the adventure tourism industry facing unique challenges in light of this incident, both operators and guests are urged to remain vigilant during their travels. In the interim, updates from health organisations will be vital in guiding responses to protect public health as the situation develops.