Images of the transfer of Spanish passengers from the vessel MV Hondius have sparked controversy on social media and cast serious doubts on the safety procedures during the evacuation. The incident occurred following the detection of a hantavirus outbreak on the cruise ship, which triggered a special operation on the island of Tenerife.
In the circulated footage, a professional from the Ministry of Health's Mental Health Commission is seen disembarking from a UME vehicle on the airport tarmac. The individual walked through the area without a mask and carrying a special protective suit, despite being part of the psychological support team for those affected.
“"The protocol stipulated that he had to wear the PPE inside."
The general directorate of Civil Protection has defended the procedure, explaining that the professional was supposed to wear the PPE during the transfer and remove it in a specific container in a restricted area of the airport. However, the images do not show the presence of such a container or the professional depositing the equipment there. The official expressed confidence in the staff's professionalism and that the regulated steps were followed.
Biosecurity protocols clearly state that the removal and disposal of protective material must be carried out in a controlled manner, in designated areas, and with appropriate hygiene measures, especially when there has been potential exposure to infectious agents.
