British passengers from the MV Hondius cruise ship, struck by a hantavirus outbreak, undergo evacuation to a specialized UK quarantine facility after docking in Tenerife on Sunday morning. They will fly to Arrowe Park Hospital on the Wirral for isolation.
Disembarkation Underway
WHO Director-General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus announced: “The disembarkment of the first group of MV Hondius passengers has started.” Passengers receive housing in a dedicated block, separated from public hospital areas, for up to 72 hours. Authorities erected blue tarpaulin fences around the accommodation blocks that morning.
Outbreak Impact
The outbreak has resulted in three deaths and eight confirmed cases, including three British nationals. Two confirmed British cases remain hospitalized—one in South Africa and one in the Netherlands.
Remote Response on Tristan da Cunha
A third suspected British case isolates on remote Tristan da Cunha. Six paratroopers delivered medical supplies via parachute drop. The Ministry of Defence noted this marked the first instance of medical personnel parachuted in for humanitarian assistance.
Quarantine Protocols for Returnees
Returning British passengers must self-isolate for 45 days and avoid public transport when heading home from the facility.
