Disturbing video footage from a cruise ship filled with masked passengers and empty decks has surfaced as health workers in hazmat suits board the troubled vessel. The Dutch ship MV Hondius, located off the coast of Cape Verde, is currently carrying around 150 stranded passengers, with most staying in their cabins to avoid the Hantavirus, which has already claimed three lives and left eight others critically ill.
The cruise ship was denied entry at Port of Praia, Cape Verde, with local authorities keeping the vessel isolated to safeguard public health. The ship is now en route to Spain after being refused entry by the Canary Islands leader, Fernando Clavijo. Eerie images captured by AP show deserted decks as health workers monitor the ship.
The once lively lounges, restaurants, and dining areas on MV Hondius are now eerily empty. The ship is expected to reach Santa Cruz de Tenerife soon. A statement from the Spanish government confirmed that the Canary Islands have the necessary facilities to provide care for those onboard, including Spanish citizens.
Hantavirus, described by the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) as a group of viruses carried by rodents, can cause severe respiratory issues requiring hospitalization. While most strains do not spread among humans, the Andes variant responsible for the current outbreak can transmit between people through close contact. There is currently no vaccine or specific treatment for Hantavirus infections.
UKHSA has evacuated three individuals with suspected Hantavirus from MV Hondius for medical care in the Netherlands. British nationals onboard may be repatriated once the ship docks at its next stop. Measures are in place to monitor and support these individuals upon their return to the UK.
Oceanwide Expeditions has provided updates on the situation, confirming the transfer of affected individuals to the Netherlands and the ship’s journey towards the Canary Islands. Additional medical staff have been deployed to provide care during the voyage. Close coordination with authorities is ongoing to determine quarantine and screening procedures for passengers.
For the latest updates on MV Hondius, readers can follow a live blog provided by clicking the link.