Cruise ship at centre of hantavirus outbreak set to sail to Canary Islands
Some human-to-human transmission suspected on hantavirus cruise ship, WHO says
A cruise ship at the centre of a suspected hantavirus outbreak is now bound for Spain’s Canary Islands, where it will be received “in accordance with international law and humanitarian principles”, the country’s health ministry has announced.
Once in the Canary Islands, medical teams will examine and treat all passengers and crew, before transferring them to their home countries.
The ministry explained Cape Verde was unable to carry out this operation, making the Canary Islands the closest location with the necessary capabilities. Spain cited a “moral and legal obligation to assist these people, among whom are also several Spanish citizens.”
Global health authorities indicate the suspected outbreak may be transmitting between passengers aboard the Dutch-flagged MV Hondius, but maintain the risk to global health is low.
The vessel is currently off Cape Verde, where a medical evacuation of a British crew member, a Dutch colleague, and a passenger is anticipated.
