The arrival of the MV Hondius at the port of Granadilla de Abona, Tenerife, last Sunday, marked the beginning of an unprecedented disembarkation operation. Doctors from the Foreign Health Service boarded the vessel to conduct initial checks and epidemiological tests on passengers. The evacuation process, which spanned several hours, began with Spanish nationals, followed by French, Canadian, and Dutch passengers.
During Sunday, a total of 94 people of 19 different nationalities were repatriated. The evacuation phase for the 152 passengers on the cruise ship is expected to conclude today, with an additional 24 people disembarking. The remaining 34 individuals are crew members who will depart with the ship once the operation is complete.
“"I want to thank the welcoming nature that characterizes the people of the Canary Islands for allowing the arrival of the Hondius cruise ship."
Authorities from Spain and the World Health Organization (WHO), along with diplomatic representatives, have praised the international coordination efforts. The Ambassador of the Netherlands in Spain, Roel Nieuwenkamp, highlighted the “very professional work” of the Spanish Government in balancing security and health in this complex situation. The WHO maintains its recommendation for 42 days of active monitoring for evacuated passengers, although each country will apply its own protocols.
Confirmed positive cases of hantavirus have been reported among the evacuated passengers. A French and an American citizen have tested positive. The French passenger, who showed symptoms during the evacuation flight, is hospitalized in a specialized infectious disease center. Additionally, another American passenger is exhibiting mild symptoms consistent with the virus. All passengers are currently in strict isolation.
