A cruise ship that caused a global health scare due to a hantavirus outbreak has been given approval to resume operations following a thorough cleaning. The MV Hondius experienced three fatalities and 10 infections from the rat-borne virus earlier this month, raising concerns about potential human-to-human transmission worldwide.
Over 170 passengers and crew, including 30 British nationals, were evacuated from the vessel, which was later cleared to sail after a comprehensive disinfection process in Rotterdam. The ship underwent four crucial inspections and a deep cleaning by workers in protective gear during its stay in the Netherlands.
Upon arrival at the Port of Rotterdam on May 18, the MV Hondius underwent a decontamination program involving a meticulous cleaning regimen that lasted several days. Crew members wore personal protective equipment (PPE) to ensure thorough sanitization without risking their own health.
The 25 crew members and two medical staff who remained on the ship from the Canary Islands to the Netherlands were immediately quarantined upon arrival to monitor any potential virus incubation over 42 days. Stringent rodent inspection procedures were also conducted to verify the absence of the virus sources on board.
Health authorities in Rotterdam, along with infection control experts, conducted a final inspection on May 29, confirming the ship’s cleanliness and successful decontamination process. The World Health Organization reported containment of the virus, emphasizing the ongoing monitoring and care for all passengers and crew in quarantine.
Oceanwide Expeditions, the operator of MV Hondius, plans to resume its Arctic journey by June 13. The voyage includes stops in Svalbard, Norway, as the ship prepares to return to service.