Madrid, May 6: The Spanish government has made a significant decision regarding health safety, considering international regulations and humanitarian values. They have announced that the MV Hondius, an infected vessel currently near Cape Verde, will be allowed to enter their territory.
This cruise ship has reported cases of hantavirus infection during its journey, raising serious concerns. Health agencies worldwide are now involved in addressing the situation.
The World Health Organization and the European Union have jointly requested the Spanish government to safely bring the ship to the Canary Islands. The European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control is closely monitoring the situation to determine which individuals require immediate medical evacuation.
Reports indicate that some passengers and crew members have already been isolated after medical checks in Cape Verde, while the remaining individuals are expected to reach the Canary Islands within the next three to four days. The specific port of arrival has not yet been decided.
The Spanish government has stated that upon arrival, all individuals will undergo medical examinations and will be placed in specially designated areas. This process aims to completely avoid contact with local residents to prevent any risk of infection spread.
At the request of the Dutch government, a severely ill doctor aboard the ship will also be transported to Spain via air ambulance to the Canary Islands. Additionally, two crew members and another individual linked to a deceased passenger will be sent to the Netherlands for medical treatment.
Dutch cruise operator Oceanwide Expeditions confirmed this late Tuesday night. However, the exact date for the transfer has not yet been finalized.
Spain’s statement clarified that Cape Verde lacks the capacity to carry out this operation, making the Canary Islands the nearest suitable location.
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