Hantavirus: Images of High-Security Health Landing for MV Hondius Passengers

A significant health and security operation was deployed in Tenerife as passengers from the MV Hondius began disembarking under strict sanitary protocols. Images of personnel in protective gear, buses with plastic-covered seats, and police vessels underscored the scale of the measures taken by Spanish authorities at the port of Granadilla de Abona.

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L’Espagne est prête et préparée

The cruise ship arrived carrying a confirmed outbreak of hantavirus, with six cases identified among eight suspected instances, tragically resulting in three fatalities. The World Health Organization (WHO) confirmed the situation, noting that while the virus is known, it is rare and lacks a vaccine or specific treatment. The disease can cause acute respiratory syndrome, though the WHO stressed it is "not like Covid," a comparison likely on many minds given recent global health history.

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L’Espagne est prête et préparée

Spanish Health Minister Mónica García Gómez assured the public that "all the arrangements are in place" to manage the arrival with "all the guarantees in terms of public health." The ship's operator, Oceanwide Expeditions, confirmed the evacuation process would commence, with a portion of the crew remaining aboard to continue the journey to the Netherlands. WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, present at the port, stated, "Spain is ready and prepared." All passengers, considered "high-risk contacts" despite being asymptomatic, will undergo 42 days of surveillance. Le Figaro highlights the meticulous planning, emphasizing that the operation ensures "no contact" with the local population throughout the process, reflecting Spain's commitment to public safety while managing an international health incident.

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pas comme le Covid