the Spanish Health Ministry announced its decision to allow the MV Hondius to dock in the Canary Islands, in coordination with the World Health Organization (WHO) and the European Union. This action is being taken to address the recent hantavirus outbreak on board, which has resulted in at least three fatalities and multiple suspected cases among the nearly 150 passengers and crew.

The MV Hondius was previously stranded off the coast of Cape Verde, where authorities refused to let the vessel dock over safety concerns. The Spanish government highlighted that Cape Verde lacks the capabilities to handle such a public health crisis, stating, "The Canary Islands are the closest location with the necessary capabilities. Spain has a moral and legal obligation to assist these people."

Dr. Maria Van Kerkhove, an epidemiologist with the WHO, indicated a possible human-to-human transmission of the virus among close contacts on the ship. The ship's operator, Oceanwide Expeditions, confirmed that once the vessel arrives in the Canary Islands, passengers will undergo medical screenings, with arrangements made for their return to their respective countries.

A medical evacuation flight will also transport a Dutch doctor from the ship who requires urgent care. Additionally, the Spanish Health Ministry plans to conduct thorough assessments on the passengers and crew to determine further health risks and necessary care protocols.

The hantavirus is typically spread through contact with infected rodents, but in this instance, there appears to be a rare case of person-to-person transmission, particularly involving individuals who shared close quarters on the cruise.

Once docked, the passengers and crew will be treated before being repatriated, all while adhering to strict health protocols to minimize further risk of spread.

The WHO continues to monitor the situation closely and coordinate with relevant authorities to ensure a comprehensive public health response as the situation evolves.