MV Hondius Passengers Evacuated After Hantavirus Outbreak

Spain initiated the evacuation of passengers from the cruise ship MV Hondius on May 10, 2026, due to a hantavirus outbreak. Passengers were disembarked in groups and transported to the local airport for quarantine. The World Health Organization reported that eight individuals who are no longer on the ship had fallen ill, resulting in three fatalities. Officials indicated that the chance of further outbreaks remains low, emphasizing the ship had not encountered rodents, and followed health protocols. The WHO has recommended a 42-day quarantine for passengers aboard the ship as a safety measure.