The Dutch cruise ship “MV Hondius” has arrived at the port of Rotterdam following weeks of international concern after an outbreak of the Hantavirus onboard triggered strict health measures and global monitoring.
Shipping tracking data confirmed the vessel’s arrival at its final destination, where authorities are preparing extensive disinfection procedures and quarantine arrangements for remaining crew members.
The ship had been carrying around 150 passengers and crew members from 23 countries when the World Health Organization was first alerted earlier this month about multiple cases involving severe respiratory symptoms onboard.
During the outbreak, three people died from the virus, including a Dutch couple and a German citizen, raising international concerns about the potential spread of the disease.
Earlier in May, the vessel became stranded off the coast of Cape Verde after local authorities prevented passengers from disembarking because of the outbreak.
The World Health Organization and the European Union later coordinated with Spain to organize the evacuation of passengers through the Canary Islands, after which the ship continued its journey to Rotterdam with a reduced crew and two medical staff members onboard.
Dutch authorities announced preparations for quarantine facilities for several non-Dutch crew members, although it remains unclear whether they will complete the full recommended 42-day quarantine period there.
Hantavirus is primarily spread through rodents, though rare human-to-human transmission can occur after prolonged close contact. The virus may also have an incubation period lasting up to six weeks.
Several countries have already placed former passengers, crew members, and close contacts under quarantine as part of efforts to prevent wider transmission of the virus.
