The World Health Organization (WHO) said Thursday that additional hantavirus infections linked to a cruise ship outbreak cannot be ruled out, as health authorities across multiple continents continue tracking passengers exposed during a voyage that has already left at least three people dead and several others infected or under observation.
The MV Hondius, operated by Netherlands-based Oceanwide Expeditions, is now sailing toward Spain’s Canary Islands under close international monitoring, with authorities preparing a tightly controlled evacuation once it reaches Tenerife over the weekend.
More than 140 passengers and crew are expected to disembark under strict isolation procedures as governments coordinate repatriation flights and contact tracing efforts.
WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said five confirmed and three suspected cases have been identified so far, noting that the situation remains fluid due to the virus’ long incubation period, which can last up to six weeks.
World Health Organization (WHO) Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus speaks during a virtual press conference on the hantavirus cluster linked to a cruise ship travel, at the WHO headquarters, Geneva, Switzerland, May 7, 2026. (AFP Photo)
