Updated · World Health Organization (WHO) · May 14
WHO Ends MV Hondius Response After 120 Passengers Disembark in Tenerife, 3 Deaths Confirmed
Updated
Updated · World Health Organization (WHO) · May 14
WHO Ends MV Hondius Response After 120 Passengers Disembark in Tenerife, 3 Deaths Confirmed
9 articles · Updated · World Health Organization (WHO) · May 14
More than 120 MV Hondius passengers from 23 countries have safely disembarked in Tenerife and are now being monitored in transit or after returning home, Tedros said as WHO closed its on-island response.
Spanish authorities and WHO said the risk assessment, health protocols and controlled corridor at Granadilla de Abona worked as planned, allowing the ship’s passengers to leave without the feared breakdown in containment.
The operation followed a hantavirus outbreak linked to the vessel that killed three people—two onboard and a third after arrival in South Africa—while a Tenerife Guardia Civil officer also died of a heart attack during the response.
A 26-member crew remains aboard the MV Hondius as it sails to the Netherlands, and Tedros said WHO’s work will continue until all passengers and crew complete quarantine and reunite with their families.
How did a rare South American virus spark a global health emergency on a European cruise—and what does it reveal about outbreak readiness at sea?
With no vaccine for the Andes virus and survivors facing lasting effects, are current cruise and travel health protocols truly enough to protect passengers?
Global Response to the MV Hondius Hantavirus Outbreak: 11 Cases, 3 Deaths, and Lessons for International Health Security
Overview
As of May 15, 2026, the global response to the MV Hondius incident is focused on safely repatriating passengers to 23 countries and enforcing strict public health measures. This complex operation requires careful planning and coordination among international organizations and national governments. An example is the repatriation of an Argentine passenger to Eindhoven, which highlights the level of international collaboration involved. To prevent further spread of pathogens, robust logistical steps are taken, including thorough decontamination of aircraft by specialized staff. These efforts ensure that both the movement of people and public health are managed with great care and attention.