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Spain confirms it will receive hantavirus-hit cruise ship in Canary Islands

By Reuters Reuters
Cruise ship MV Hondius docks off Cape Verde port, as passengers were not allowed off the ship, while health authorities investigated suspected cases of hantavirus aboard the vessel, in Praia Port, Cape Verde, May 4, 2026. Picture taken with a mobile phone. REUTERS/Stringer
Cruise ship MV Hondius docks off Cape Verde port, as passengers were not allowed off the ship, while health authorities investigated suspected cases of hantavirus aboard the vessel, in Praia Port, Cape Verde, May 4, 2026. Picture taken with a mobile phone. REUTERS/Stringer Stringer Reuters

MADRID - The Spanish Health Ministry confirmed on Tuesday evening it would receive the MV Hondius in the Canary Islands "in accordance with international law and humanitarian principles."

Once in the Canary Islands, medical teams would examine and treat all passengers and crew and transfer them to their countries, the statement said.

"The World Health Organization has explained that Cape Verde is unable to carry out this operation," the health ministry said. "The Canary Islands are the closest location with the necessary capabilities. Spain has a moral and legal obligation to assist these people, among whom are also several Spanish citizens."

(Reporting by Aislinn Laing; Editing by Chris Reese)

Copyright Reuters or USA Today Network via Reuters Connect.

This story was originally published May 5, 2026 at 4:52 PM.

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