Spanish cruise ship passenger tests positive for hantavirus after MV Hondius evacuation

A Spanish citizen evacuated from the cruise ship MV Hondius tested positive for hantavirus, becoming the second confirmed case among Spanish passengers. The patient was quarantined at Gómez Ulla Central Defense Hospital in Madrid since May 10 and has been transferred to a high-isolation unit for specialized care. The outbreak began after the ship departed Argentina in April, resulting in three deaths. Dozens of passengers disembarked at Saint Helena and the Canary Islands in late April and May before returning to their home countries. Health authorities from multiple nations are conducting epidemiological monitoring, as the incubation period averages three weeks but can extend to six weeks. Experts note additional cases are expected in the coming week as passengers remain within the symptomatic window.