Evacuation of the MV Hondius cruise ship following hantavirus outbreak
The cruise ship MV Hondius anchored off the coast of Tenerife, Spain, on Sunday, May 10, 2026, to initiate the repatriation of 147 passengers following a hantavirus outbreak. The World Health Organization confirmed that eight individuals have fallen ill, with three deaths reported—a Dutch couple and a German national. Spanish authorities implemented strict biosecurity protocols, using small boats to ferry passengers in small groups to the airport for military-led flights to their home countries. Passengers are required to undergo quarantine, with the World Health Organization recommending a 42-day period, though national protocols vary, such as France's 72-hour hospital stay followed by self-isolation. A Greek passenger is being repatriated via the Netherlands to Elefsina, with subsequent transfer to the Attikon Hospital for a 45-day quarantine. Despite initial concerns, inspectors reported no rodents found on board the vessel. All passengers are classified as high-risk contacts, although the risk to the general public is considered low.