Spain modifies quarantine protocol for MV Hondius hantavirus contacts; WHO reports 12 cases across 7 countries

Spain has approved revised quarantine protocols for hantavirus contacts exposed via the MV Hondius cruise ship outbreak. Asymptomatic individuals with negative PCR tests may complete the final 14 days of a 42-day quarantine at home, provided isolation conditions are met and daily health checks conducted. Hospital quarantine covers the initial 28 days. The WHO reports 12 confirmed hantavirus cases across multiple countries with 3 deaths, all occurring before 2 May 2026. A crew member transferred to the Netherlands represents the latest confirmed case. No additional deaths have been recorded in 20 days. Over 600 possible contacts in 30 countries continue monitoring, though some high-risk contacts remain untraced. Responding countries include Spain, Argentina, Chile, the Netherlands, South Africa, Cabo Verde, and the United Kingdom.