MV Hondius passengers disembark in Tenerife after weeks-long Andes hantavirus outbreak at sea

The MV Hondius cruise ship arrived at Tenerife's Port of Granadilla after an extended voyage disrupted by detection of the Andes strain of hantavirus aboard. Approximately 100 passengers were evacuated in coordinated waves under strict biosafety measures. Spanish health authorities worked with WHO to manage the outbreak, with epidemiologists noting that transmission appears confined to close contact between symptomatic individuals—distinguishing it from respiratory pandemics. The passengers, representing 23 nationalities, faced mandatory quarantine and isolation protocols lasting at least six weeks. Media coverage was extensive, reflecting public anxiety, though authorities maintained transparency throughout the disembarkation process to reassure residents.