Spain’s health minister Mónica García said authorities are continuing to monitor the MV Hondius cruise ship in coordination with the World Health Organization and other countries following a hantavirus-related health event.
In a post on X, García said infected patients from the vessel are being evacuated to the Netherlands for medical treatment, thanking healthcare teams for their efforts to protect public health.
According to Spain’s health ministry, three infected patients are being transferred from Cabo Verde to the Netherlands. The remaining passengers are asymptomatic and will undergo screening and transfer procedures at the port of Granadilla de Abona in the Canary Islands.
Foreign passengers are expected to be repatriated unless their medical condition prevents travel. Spanish nationals on board will be evaluated and transferred to the Gómez Ulla Central Defence Hospital in Madrid, where they will remain under quarantine and medical supervision.
Authorities said the operation is being conducted under strict safety protocols to avoid contact with the local population and to ensure protection for healthcare workers, with continued coordination involving WHO, the European Union and affected countries.
Earlier, Spain’s health ministry stated that the country would receive the MV Hondius in the Canary Islands in line with international law and humanitarian considerations, following coordination with WHO and European authorities.