The decision, announced this Tuesday, comes after the vessel remained anchored off the coast of Cape Verde. Authorities have opted for a plan that includes the air evacuation of sick passengers to the Netherlands, where they will receive specialized medical attention.
“"Right now, according to the latest information from the Government of Spain, it is absolutely ruled out that the cruise ship affected by the hantavirus outbreak can go to the Canary Islands."
The agreed plan between the Ministry of Health and the World Health Organization (WHO) stipulates that the ship, with 147 passengers on board (including two infected and one close contact), will return to its flag country for necessary disinfection and control protocols.
This measure aims to ensure health safety and prompt care for those affected, avoiding any risk to the Canary Islands. The solution has been described as the most logical and immediate way to manage the crisis.
“"The best solution was to evacuate the sick passengers with a specifically prepared aircraft, with the necessary protection measures for both health personnel and patients, so that they can be treated in Holland."
