MADRID – Spanish health authorities announced Tuesday night they will allow the cruise vessel MV Hondius to dock in the Canary Islands following a hantavirus outbreak on board, citing both legal obligations and humanitarian concerns.
Medical personnel will conduct health evaluations and provide treatment to all individuals aboard the ship before coordinating their transportation back to their respective home nations, according to an official statement.
Health ministry officials explained that Cape Verde lacks the necessary resources to handle the medical emergency. “The Canary Islands are the closest location with the necessary capabilities,” the ministry stated. “Spain has a moral and legal obligation to assist these people, among whom are also several Spanish citizens.”
The World Health Organization had previously indicated that Cape Verde was not equipped to manage the complex medical operation required for the affected cruise ship.
