Critical situation on board the MV Hondius
The MV Hondius, carrying nearly 150 people, is heading towards Tenerife, Canary Islands, after its initial destination – Cape Verde – denied access due to concerns over the spread of a deadly virus.
Security measures and quarantine
Upon arrival, foreign nationals will be repatriated if they are healthy, while 14 Spanish passengers will be placed under strict quarantine at a military hospital in Madrid.
Three people – a Dutch couple and a German citizen – lost their lives as a result of the viral epidemic on board.
Origin of the infection
Investigative authorities suggest that the source of the infection is hantavirus. It is believed that a Dutch couple became infected during a bird-watching excursion in the city of Ushuaia, where they had contact with rodents near a landfill.
Global search for passengers
- Eight people are suspected of being infected according to the WHO.
- Authorities around the world are searching for passengers who left the ship before the quarantine was established.
- The case raises questions regarding the safety of cruise travel during epidemic situations.