A hantavirus outbreak linked to the MV Hondius cruise ship has developed further, with a new case confirmed and multiple patients evacuated for treatment.
Three individuals, including a British crew member, were evacuated from the vessel in a specialist medical operation, with health officials confirming they are being transported to the Netherlands for treatment. The other two patients are reported to be a Dutch crew member and a German passenger.
The World Health Organisation (WHO) has also confirmed a new case in Switzerland. The individual, who had been a passenger on the cruise, sought medical attention in Zurich after being alerted to the outbreak. Authorities confirmed he is receiving care.
Health officials have identified the strain involved as the Andes variant of hantavirus, the only known type capable of human-to-human transmission. Despite this, the WHO has stressed that transmission requires very close contact and the overall public health risk remains low.
In a further development, French media reported a suspected case involving a person who had not been on the cruise ship but had travelled on a flight with an infected passenger. This would represent the first potential transmission outside the vessel, although tests are ongoing to confirm the strain.
The MV Hondius has requested permission to dock in the Canary Islands, with Tenerife identified as a potential destination. The Spanish government said it had been asked by the WHO and the European Union to accept the vessel under international humanitarian obligations.
Spain’s health ministry stated that the Canary Islands are the closest location equipped to handle the situation, as Cape Verde does not have the necessary capacity. Plans are in place for passengers and crew to be assessed, treated and repatriated under strict containment measures to prevent further spread.
Regional authorities in the Canary Islands have expressed concern about the decision, with local leadership awaiting the outcome of discussions between national officials.
The outbreak remains under close international monitoring as health agencies continue contact tracing and containment efforts.