Canary Islands

A Spanish judge in Gran Canaria rejected defense motions to dismiss charges against Real Madrid defender Raúl Asencio and three former youth academy players—Ferrán Ruiz, Juan Rodríguez, and Andrés García—for recording and distributing a sexual video involving a minor in June 2023. Asencio faces charges for sharing the video, while the others face child pornography and privacy violation counts. Despite victims withdrawing complaints, the trial is set for September 2026, with prosecutors seeking a 2.5-year sentence for Asencio.

6 reports · 3 sources · Updated Jul 31, 07:56 PM UTC

Paramount Pictures has released the first trailer for 'Children of Blood and Bone', the film adaptation of Tomi Adeyemi's bestselling 2018 fantasy novel. Directed by Gina Prince-Bythewood ('The Woman King'), the film stars Thuso Mbedu as Zélie Adebola, a young maji on a quest to restore magic in the kingdom of Orïsha. The ensemble cast includes Viola Davis, Idris Elba, Chiwetel Ejiofor, Regina King, Cynthia Erivo, and Lashana Lynch. Shot in South Africa and the Canary Islands, the film blends West African mythology with political allegory. It is scheduled for theatrical and IMAX release on January 15, 2027.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 29, 06:46 AM UTC

Spanish seafood company Nueva Pescanova has abandoned plans to build the world's first commercial octopus farm in the Canary Islands, citing business and regulatory constraints. The project, announced in 2019, aimed to raise up to one million octopuses annually in land-based tanks but faced strong opposition from environmental groups over animal welfare concerns, citing octopuses' intelligence and solitary nature, as well as environmental impacts from carnivorous feed. NGOs celebrated the decision as a victory, urging governments to ban octopus farming entirely. The article also notes ongoing EU efforts to boost aquaculture to reduce seafood imports, despite similar controversies over a proposed salmon mega-farm in France.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 24, 02:00 AM UTC

According to Mundo Deportivo, Barcelona midfielder Pedri will take a one-week wildlife safari in Africa with his family before beginning a personalized preseason training plan based on genetic testing. The plan, derived from a muscle fiber analysis conducted two years ago in a Baltimore laboratory, recommends continuous but regulated exercise rather than prolonged breaks. Pedri recently delivered a standout performance in the World Cup final, where Spain defeated Argentina 1-0 in extra time, coming off the bench to control the game with a 93% pass completion rate and four chances created. Despite limited minutes in earlier knockout rounds, he led the Spanish squad with 13 key passes in the tournament. Pedri aims to win the Champions League final at the Metropolitano Stadium in 2027.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 21, 08:39 AM UTC

Following Spain's 1-0 victory over Argentina in the 2026 World Cup final, Chinese tourists showed a dramatic surge in interest in traveling to Spain, according to data from the online travel agency Qunar reported by Global Times. Searches for the Shenzhen-Barcelona route increased 33-fold within an hour of the win. Other routes, including Kunming-Barcelona and Qingdao-Barcelona, saw rapid demand increases, with Kunming searches multiplying tenfold. Flights to Madrid from Kunming and Jinan rose eightfold, while searches for Málaga increased more than tenfold. Interest in the Canary Islands also spiked, with Tenerife flight searches up 19 times week-over-week. The report attributes the spike to the sporting achievement, increased direct air connections between China and Spain, and the peak summer travel season. Despite Argentina's loss, searches for flights from Guangzhou to Buenos Aires also rose 6.5 times.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 21, 08:31 AM UTC

Spain celebrated its second World Cup title after a 1-0 extra-time victory over Argentina in the 2026 final. During the trophy ceremony, Spanish players notably displayed flags representing their home regions and cities rather than the Spanish national flag. Gavi wrapped himself in the Andalusian flag, Borja Iglesias wore a Galician flag as a skirt, Ferran Torres waved the Valencian flag, and Pedri and Yeremi displayed the Canary Islands flag. Dani Olmo celebrated with an even more local flag. The ceremony also featured US President Donald Trump and FIFA President Gianni Infantino presenting medals, with Trump remaining on stage during the team photo. The article highlights the strong regional identities within Spain's national team.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 20, 12:59 PM UTC

A hantavirus outbreak aboard the MV Hondius cruise ship resulted in three deaths and multiple confirmed cases among passengers from 23 countries. Originating likely in Argentina, the rare Andes virus strain facilitated limited human-to-human transmission. The World Health Organization coordinated a complex international evacuation in Tenerife, Spain, repatriating over 120 individuals for mandatory quarantine. While the WHO assessed the global public health risk as low, the incident highlighted challenges in managing infectious diseases in maritime settings, leading to varied national containment protocols and secondary exposure incidents in healthcare facilities.

101 reports · 55 sources · Updated Jul 3, 12:04 PM UTC

This article analyzes the comparative economic impact of Pope Leo XIV's papal visit and Bad Bunny's concert tour in Spain, specifically focusing on their influence on the Consumer Price Index (CPI) and GDP. Scheduled for June 2026, the Pope's visit to Madrid, Catalonia, and the Canary Islands is expected to mobilize approximately 1.63 million people, generating an estimated economic impact of at least 250 million euros. In contrast, Bad Bunny's ten concerts in Madrid and two in Barcelona have sold around 600,000 tickets, with an projected economic contribution of 150 to 200 million euros. While the Papal visit attracts a larger volume of attendees, economists argue that Bad Bunny's events will exert greater pressure on prices, particularly in the hospitality and hotel sectors. The artist's younger, nocturnal demographic drives higher spending on accommodation, dining, and entertainment, creating sustained demand similar to the 'Taylor Swift effect.' Consequently, despite the Pope's broader reach, Bad Bunny's concerts are predicted to leave a deeper mark on the services CPI due to the specific consumption dynamics of his fanbase.

1 reports · 1 sources

CV Guaguas has secured its fourth consecutive Spanish Super League volleyball title, marking the fifth championship in the club's history. The Canary Islands-based team defeated CV Melilla with a decisive 3-0 victory in the second match of the final series, held at the Gran Canaria Arena. Guaguas demonstrated superior offensive and defensive efficiency throughout the match, winning the sets with scores of 25-17, 25-19, and 25-16. Key performances came from Argentine players Nico Bruno and Federico Martina, as well as Osmany Juantorena, who overwhelmed Melilla's defense. Despite efforts from Melilla's coach Salim Abdelkader to adjust tactics and stop Guaguas' attacks, the visitors struggled with errors and could not break through Guaguas' blocking line. The victory was sealed by a crucial block from Augusto Colito. As a result of this triumph, CV Guaguas will qualify for the next edition of the CEV Champions League, aiming to improve upon their quarterfinal finish in the current season. The match was attended by approximately 3,000 spectators.

1 reports · 1 sources

A deadly hantavirus outbreak aboard the MV Hondius cruise ship has resulted in three deaths and multiple infections across several countries. Originating from exposure in Argentina, the Andes virus strain spread among passengers, prompting evacuations to Spain, the UK, the US, and other nations. Health authorities, including the WHO and CDC, emphasize that while the virus has a high fatality rate, its limited human-to-human transmission poses a low risk to the general public. Strict quarantine and contact tracing measures are being implemented globally to contain the outbreak.

50 reports · 32 sources · Updated May 17, 09:49 AM UTC

Dr. Stephen Kornfeld, an American physician who initially tested positive for hantavirus while aboard the MV Hondius cruise ship, has subsequently tested negative. Medical experts at the University of Nebraska Medical Center's biocontainment unit determined that the initial result was likely a false positive, stating there is no serological evidence of previous exposure or infection. Dr. Kornfeld, who experienced flu-like symptoms such as fatigue, cough, and sore throat, reported feeling physically and emotionally well. He attributed his illness to a common viral infection rather than hantavirus. Despite the negative results, he remains in quarantine in Nebraska alongside other asymptomatic passengers from the cruise for monitoring purposes, acknowledging he is still within the potential incubation period. The incident occurred following a hantavirus outbreak on the ship that resulted in at least one fatality. Officials continue to monitor 41 individuals across the US connected to the voyage. Dr. Kornfeld emphasized his confidence in the new results while adhering to isolation protocols to ensure public safety.

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Spain faces escalating national security threats from two distinct maritime sources: the expanding Russian "ghost fleet" and increasingly violent drug smuggling operations. A recent national security report highlights that up to 50 Russian tankers are monitored weekly off the Canary Islands, marking a fivefold increase in 2025. Authorities are particularly concerned about these often unsafe vessels potentially sabotaging over 20 critical submarine cables connecting Europe and South America. Simultaneously, drug traffickers operating along the Andalusian coast and the Strait of Gibraltar are employing brutal tactics, including ramming police vessels and using military-grade weapons. Recent incidents have resulted in the deaths of several law enforcement officers in Spain and Portugal. The report notes that smugglers utilize high-speed boats capable of reaching 140 km/h to transport drugs from Morocco, described as the world's largest hashish producer. Despite recent seizures of 41 tons of cocaine, police struggle to match the speed and aggression of criminal networks, prompting urgent calls for reinforced security measures along the southern European coastline.

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Researchers from the University of La Laguna and the Canary Island Institute for Agricultural Research (ICIA) have demonstrated that feeding goats a diet supplemented with Echium plantagineum oil significantly improves the nutritional quality of their meat. The study addressed the modern dietary imbalance of excessive omega-6 and insufficient omega-3 fatty acids, which is linked to inflammation and cardiovascular diseases. In an experiment involving 24 male Canarian goats divided into three groups, the team compared diets containing soybean oil (control), flaxseed oil, and Echium oil. Results indicated that both flaxseed and Echium diets reduced the omega-6/omega-3 ratio to approximately 4.7, a level associated with better health outcomes, compared to 12.2 in the control group. Notably, the Echium group showed the highest accumulation of eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), nearly doubling the levels found in the control group. This natural dietary modification offers a promising method to enhance meat's health benefits without genetic engineering or artificial processes, potentially contributing to the prevention of metabolic disorders.

1 reports · 1 sources

Biologists have spent the last decade studying the naked mole rat, an animal renowned for its exceptional resistance to cancer and aging. The core of this research focuses on high molecular weight hyaluronic acid (HMW-HA), a substance found in high levels within these rodents that contributes to their extreme survival capabilities. According to Vera Gorbunova, a professor and researcher at the University of Rochester, it took ten years from the initial discovery of HMW-HA in naked mole rats to demonstrate its health-improving effects in mice. The current objective is to translate these benefits to humans, potentially offering new avenues for preventing age-related diseases and extending human lifespan. Naked mole rats can live up to 41 years, rarely developing conditions typically associated with aging. This ongoing scientific inquiry highlights the potential of genetic mechanisms and immune system processes in enhancing disease resistance and healing. While the article briefly mentions a unrelated hantavirus outbreak, the primary focus remains on the biological secrets of the naked mole rat and the promising implications of HMW-HA for future medical treatments and longevity research.

1 reports · 1 sources

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) announced that the number of Americans under monitoring for potential hantavirus exposure has increased to 41, though no confirmed cases have been reported in the United States. This figure represents an update from previous state health department data, which identified at least 36 individuals across 11 states. The monitoring effort is linked to a cruise ship outbreak associated with 11 cases and three deaths globally. David Fitter, the CDC's incident manager, emphasized that the risk to the general public remains low and highlighted the agency's collaboration with state and local health authorities. The 41 individuals are undergoing a 42-day symptom-monitoring period and include cruise passengers returning to the U.S., those who returned home before the outbreak was identified, and individuals potentially exposed during flights with disembarked passengers. While the CDC faces criticism for its initial response speed, it is currently deploying 100 staff members to manage the situation without enforcing federal quarantine orders. Instead, the agency recommends isolation for high-risk contacts and self-monitoring for low-risk individuals, with specialized care available at facilities like the University of Nebraska Medical Center.

1 reports · 1 sources

The United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) announced on May 14, 2026, that it is monitoring 41 people for potential hantavirus exposure following an outbreak on the cruise ship MV Hondius. Initially, 18 repatriated passengers were under observation, but the number increased as authorities tracked indirect contacts across multiple states, including Georgia, Texas, Arizona, California, Virginia, and New Jersey. The monitored individuals include those who disembarked on the African coast or were exposed during travel. Sixteen repatriates were transferred to the University of Nebraska Medical Center for specialized care, while a symptomatic couple was admitted to Emory University in Atlanta; one patient remains in a biocontainment unit. The CDC recommends a six-week quarantine period, with state health departments conducting daily symptom and temperature checks. This development follows the evacuation of American and British citizens from the Canary Islands, Spain, where the outbreak was first identified. The situation has reignited public health concerns regarding disease transmission on cruise ships, prompting ongoing surveillance to prevent further spread of the virus within the US population.

1 reports · 1 sources

The French government is pushing for the immediate transfer of two orcas, Wikie and Keijo, from the closed Marineland d’Antibes to a facility in Spain. Mathieu Lefèvre, the Minister Delegate for Ecological Transition, declared the situation an emergency due to the advanced structural degradation of the tanks in Antibes, warning that inaction could lead to their deaths. While all necessary permissions are secured, the final agreement rests between Marineland’s owner, Parques Reunidos, and the receiving Spanish park, Loro Parque in the Canary Islands. The minister aims to complete the transfer within weeks. However, this plan faces strong opposition from animal rights NGOs like Sea Shepherd. They argue that the basins are stable and accuse the government of prioritizing the commercial interests of Parques Reunidos over animal welfare. Activists contend that Loro Parque is unsuitable and advocate for semi-liberty sanctuaries instead. Meanwhile, the transfer of dolphins remaining at the site is delayed until 2027, pending the construction of adapted facilities at Beauval ZooParc in France. Lefèvre is scheduled to meet with Marineland management to expedite the process.

1 reports · 1 sources

Spanish authorities executed the largest cocaine seizure in history, intercepting over 30 metric tons aboard the vessel Arconian in Atlantic waters south of the Canary Islands. The ship had departed from Sierra Leone, highlighting West Africa's growing role as a critical transit hub for Latin American drugs destined for Europe. This operation underscores significant structural changes in the global drug supply chain, characterized by fragmented yet consolidated criminal networks. European groups, such as the Dutch-based Mocro Maffia, are increasingly establishing direct connections with suppliers in Colombia to manage massive shared shipments. Furthermore, intensified law enforcement pressure on major European ports has forced traffickers to adopt alternative logistics, including refueling go-fast boats at sea to bypass traditional port controls. This shift not only facilitates large-volume transport but also contributes to rising violence in coastal regions like southern Spain. The involvement of high-profile fugitives, such as Jos Leijdekkers in Sierra Leone, further illustrates the transnational complexity and evolving strategies of modern drug trafficking organizations.

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A deceased sperm whale washed ashore on La Palma in the Canary Islands, revealing a rare and valuable discovery within its digestive system. Antonio Fernández Rodríguez, director of the Institute of Animal Health and Food Security at the University of Las Palmas, conducted an autopsy despite challenging ocean conditions. He extracted a 9.5kg lump of ambergris, often called 'floating gold,' from the whale's colon. This substance, formed from undigested squid beaks, is highly prized in the perfume industry and was estimated to be worth approximately $500,000. The massive accumulation likely caused intestinal rupture and sepsis, leading to the whale's death. While trade in ambergris is banned in countries like the US, Australia, and India to protect whales, the institute is seeking a buyer for this specific find. Fernández hopes that the proceeds from the sale will support victims of the 2021 volcanic eruption on La Palma. This event highlights both the biological mysteries of sperm whales and the economic value of their byproducts, while raising questions about conservation laws and local community aid.

1 reports · 1 sources

The European Union Council has activated the Integrated Political Crisis Response (IPCR) mechanism in "information sharing mode" to enhance coordination among member states regarding hantavirus cases. This decision aims to facilitate easier information exchange between EU institutions and national governments, although the European Center for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) assesses the risk to the general public as very low. The activation follows reports from the World Health Organization about a potential increase in cases, highlighted by an incident on the MV Hondius cruise ship, where passengers were evacuated in Tenerife. While the IPCR is currently in "full" mode for other major crises like the Russia-Ukraine War, this specific health-related activation focuses on monitoring and data sharing. Hantavirus, primarily transmitted through contact with rodent excreta, can cause severe symptoms including respiratory failure and kidney issues, but officials confirm there is no immediate risk of a widespread epidemic. The move underscores the EU's proactive approach to health security and cross-border cooperation in managing potential biological threats.

1 reports · 1 sources

This travel feature highlights the unique combination of luxury all-inclusive resorts and rugged natural landscapes available in the Canary Islands. Partnering with British Airways Holidays, the article showcases three specific destinations: Tenerife, Fuerteventura, and Gran Canaria. It emphasizes how travelers can enjoy high-end amenities, such as infinity pools, fine dining, and rooftop bars, while simultaneously exploring the islands' dramatic volcanic terrain. Specific resorts mentioned include the Gran Melia Palacio de Isora in Tenerife, known for its saltwater infinity pool and proximity to Teide National Park, and Paradisus by Melia Fuerteventura, which offers a restorative escape with nature walks. The piece encourages visitors to balance relaxation with adventure, suggesting activities like hiking Mount Teide, Spain’s highest peak, before enjoying traditional Canarian cuisine and sunset cocktails. The article serves as a promotional guide for tourists seeking both comfort and outdoor exploration in these Atlantic Spanish islands, noting their year-round pleasant climate.

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Scientists in Chile, led by researcher Barría at the Universidad de Concepción, successfully developed antibodies that neutralized the deadly Andes hantavirus in laboratory and animal studies around 2016. This breakthrough offered hope for treating the rare virus, which has a high mortality rate and is unique in its ability to spread between humans. However, the project stalled before reaching human clinical trials due to a critical lack of funding and disruptions caused by the global Covid-19 pandemic. Currently, the Andes hantavirus is drawing renewed global attention following a cluster of infections and deaths linked to the MV Hondius cruise ship traveling from Argentina to Europe. The World Health Organization has issued an alert regarding the outbreak. Meanwhile, parallel research by Professor Kartik Chandran at Albert Einstein College of Medicine in the US has also produced effective antibody treatments in animal models, which are now ready for human trials. The situation highlights the urgent need for financial support to advance these life-saving medical interventions against a pathogen that kills approximately one in three infected individuals.

1 reports · 1 sources

A recent Sigma Dos survey for El Mundo reveals deep divisions among Spaniards regarding the reception of the cruise ship MV Hondius amid a health crisis. Nearly 49% of nationals reject the ship's arrival, while in the Canary Islands, 57.8% oppose it. The controversy has intensified political tensions between the Central Government and regional authorities just before the May 17 elections. Canary Islands President Fernando Clavijo emerges as the primary political beneficiary, with 54.6% approval in the archipelago, despite lacking national consensus. In contrast, central government figures face significant disapproval. Minister Ángel Víctor Torres holds only 30% approval in the Canaries, while Interior Minister Fernando Grande-Marlaska faces 58.5% dissatisfaction locally. Health Minister Mónica García also struggles with negative perceptions. Although the crisis involves health protocols, public fear remains low, with only 20% expressing alarm. Right-wing voters largely view the situation as political propaganda rather than a genuine emergency. The dispute highlights the friction between Madrid and the Canary Islands, characterized by accusations of imposition and lack of dialogue, significantly influencing the pre-electoral landscape.

1 reports · 1 sources

Two doctors from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) stated that the risk to the general American public from the ongoing hantavirus outbreak remains low, despite rising concerns linked to a cruise ship incident. During a media briefing, CDC officials defended their response strategy against criticism from some experts who claimed the agency was too passive compared to the World Health Organization. David Fitter, the CDC’s incident manager, emphasized that the agency has been engaged at every step, activating emergency responses in Atlanta and deploying over 100 staff members. Key actions included coordinating with international partners, providing information to passengers traveling from Argentina to Antarctica, and sending teams to the Canary Islands and Nebraska. Passengers are undergoing health assessments and a 42-day monitoring period due to the virus's long incubation time. While some individuals are monitored in hospitals like the Nebraska Biocontainment Unit, others are under home observation. The CDC maintains that its established playbook ensures community safety through deliberate, coordinated efforts across federal, state, and local levels, promising continued transparent updates to the public.

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Jake Rosmarin, a New York native, is among 16 American passengers quarantined at the University of Nebraska Medical Center following a deadly hantavirus outbreak on the M/V Hondius cruise ship. The outbreak has resulted in 11 confirmed or suspected cases and three deaths. Rosmarin, who tested negative and remains asymptomatic, described his isolation in the National Quarantine Unit as manageable, noting daily health checks, exercise equipment, and Wi-Fi access. He emphasized staying positive despite the uncertainty. Seventeen Americans and one British dual citizen were repatriated to the U.S., with symptomatic individuals transferred to Emory University Hospital in Atlanta for biocontainment treatment. The incident began when the ship was denied entry to multiple ports before docking in the Canary Islands. Rosmarin recalled the final days aboard as frightening but highlighted the earlier expedition's unique experiences, including visits to South Georgia Island. Health officials continue to monitor the situation, with the Andes strain identified as the cause. The quarantine period is expected to last approximately 40 days for those cleared of immediate severe symptoms.

1 reports · 1 sources

Health officials are monitoring a deadly hantavirus outbreak linked to the Dutch-flagged cruise ship M/V Hondius, with at least 11 confirmed or suspected cases and three reported deaths. The identified strain is the Andes virus, unique for its ability to spread person-to-person through prolonged close contact. Investigations indicate the initial cases likely originated from a Dutch couple who visited rodent-infested areas in South America before boarding. The husband died aboard the ship, while his wife passed away after disembarking in Saint Helena. Global health authorities, including the WHO and CDC, have initiated contact tracing and isolation protocols across multiple countries. Repatriated passengers, including Americans and Spanish citizens, are undergoing strict monitoring in quarantine and biocontainment units. Some individuals tested positive or showed symptoms, prompting cautious medical responses in the United States and Europe. As of mid-May 2026, new cases continue to emerge, highlighting the ongoing risk and the complexity of managing an infectious disease outbreak in an international travel context.

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The 2026 Milky Way Photographer of the Year competition, organized by Capture the Atlas, showcases twenty-five stunning astrophotography images captured under the world's darkest skies. This annual event highlights both the breathtaking beauty of the galaxy and the urgent environmental issue of light pollution, which prevents over one-third of the global population from viewing the Milky Way. Featured photographs range from the volcanic peaks of the Canary Islands to the salt flats of Argentina, demonstrating the endurance required for such shots. Notable entries include Uros Fink’s 400-megapixel composite of Geminid meteors over the Gran Telescopio Canarias, Owain Scullion’s winter capture of the galaxy above New Zealand’s Aoraki/Mount Cook, and Alvin Wu’s fisheye view of lupines framing the sky in Twizel. Other highlights involve unexpected wildlife encounters, such as a seal in New Zealand, and natural phenomena like airglow over Yellowstone’s Grand Prismatic Spring. The collection serves as a visual record of what remains visible in our night sky while acting as an alarm bell for the vanishing darkness caused by expanding urban artificial lighting.

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Spanish Minister of the Interior, Fernando Grande-Marlaska, faced loud boos and whistles during a swearing-in ceremony for new Civil Guard recruits in Baeza, Jaén. The hostile reception occurred as he addressed the recent deaths of two agents from Huelva who were killed while chasing a drug trafficking boat. The incident has sparked significant political controversy, exacerbated by comments from government official María Jesús Montero, who initially described the deaths as a 'work accident,' and criticism regarding the government's absence at the funeral. Marlaska attempted to calm the crowd, stating he understood their pain and anger, asserting that he too was hurt and furious. He reiterated that combating drug trafficking and organized crime remains a top priority for the Spanish government. Despite eight seconds of sustained protest, he continued his speech, urging unity and condemning the politicization of victims. Government spokespersons have since defended their record, citing increased resources and operations against criminal networks since 2018, while Marlaska called for cordiality and respect for democratic values in the face of such threats.

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This Vox article critiques the media's tendency to frame the hantavirus outbreak aboard the cruise ship MV Hondius around public fear and panic. The author argues that headlines asking if readers should be worried or afraid are misleading, as the answer is consistently no for the general public. While the outbreak resulted in 11 confirmed or probable cases and three deaths, experts indicate that hantavirus lacks the transmissibility required to become a pandemic threat. The response system, despite initial challenges due to the unusual nature of a seaborne outbreak, has functioned effectively. Spain accepted passengers in Tenerife, where they were met by hazmat teams, while US-bound passengers were quarantined in specialized units with biocontainment equipment. The piece emphasizes that focusing on individual emotional responses distracts from the factual reality: the situation is being controlled, and the risk to the broader population remains low. The author urges a shift away from alarmist framing toward more informative public health coverage.

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This opinion piece by Zeynep Tufekci critiques the global response to a recent hantavirus outbreak on the MV Hondius cruise ship, arguing that authorities continue to repeat historical mistakes in pandemic preparedness. The article highlights the discrepancy between official reassurances from the WHO and US President Donald Trump, who claimed the virus requires close contact and spreads poorly, and scientific evidence suggesting airborne transmission. Referencing a 2018 Andes strain outbreak in Argentina, the text details how superspreader events occurred in social settings and funerals, contradicting the notion that the virus is difficult to catch. Experts cited, including study author Gustavo Palacios and airborne transmission specialist Linsey Marr, indicate that respiratory secretions likely drive transmission, with a reproduction rate of 2.1. The analysis emphasizes that despite known risks, public health strategies remain reactive rather than proactive, leaving populations vulnerable to emerging threats due to a failure to learn from past painful experiences and scientific data regarding viral transmission dynamics.

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