Passengers Begin Disembarking Hantavirus-Affected Ship in Tenerife

Passengers aboard the MV Hondius cruise ship have begun disembarking at the Port of Granadilla in Tenerife, Canary Islands, following a hantavirus outbreak. Spanish Health Minister Mónica García confirmed that the process is proceeding normally and all passengers remain asymptomatic. The disembarkation is organized by nationality, with small boats transporting passengers ashore while their luggage remains on board. The ship, carrying the remaining crew, is scheduled to depart for the Port of Rotterdam, a journey expected to take five days. International cooperation has been significant, with France, Germany, Belgium, Ireland, and the Netherlands sending aircraft to repatriate their citizens. The European Union provided additional flights for other EU nationals, while the United States and Britain are coordinating transport for non-EU citizens. All over 100 passengers are undergoing testing for the Andes hantavirus variant. The World Health Organization reported six confirmed and two probable cases linked to the vessel. This specific variant is notable for its ability to spread between humans, with an incubation period lasting up to nine weeks. Authorities have established reception tents and restricted waterfront access to manage the situation effectively.