This morning, a cruise ship with an outbreak of the deadly hantavirus strain arrived at the port of Granadilla on the island of Tenerife. European countries and the United States have organised an urgent evacuation of passengers, and the WHO is calling for strict medical monitoring of the evacuees.
Hantavirus outbreak on a ship: details of the incident
Today, 10 May, the port of Granadilla in Tenerife a cruise ship arrived, with hantavirus outbreak. The ship's passengers are reportedly at risk of contracting the deadly strain, which is a matter of serious concern among international organisations and governments.
The evacuation operation began immediately after the ship's arrival. All passengers are being transported ashore in sealed vehicles under tight security. The process will continue until Monday to ensure maximum safety and minimise the risk of infection.
Evacuation of citizens of different countries
The US has already sent its own plane to evacuate its citizens. All 17 Americans will be taken to the National Quarantine Unit in Nebraska, where Ebola patients were previously treated. EU countries are taking similar measures: Germany, France, Belgium, Ireland and the Netherlands are also sending planes to return their citizens.
Spanish passengers will be sent to Madrid, where they will be quarantined under medical supervision. The ship's crew will also be evacuated, but about 30 crew members will remain on the ship to transfer it to Rotterdam (Netherlands) for full disinfection.
Safety measures and WHO recommendations
The World Health Organization recommends that evacuated passengers be monitored for 42 days. This period is due to the incubation period of the hantavirus and the potential risk of developing symptoms during this time.
The Tenerife authorities and international organisations are coordinating to prevent the spread of the infection on the island and in Europe. The operation is being carried out in close cooperation with health services and law enforcement agencies.
Why it matters
Hantavirus outbreak on a cruise ship was a serious test for the international security and emergency response system. The mass evacuation of citizens from different countries demonstrates the high level of threat and the need for global coordination.
The consequences of the incident could affect the tourism industry and also influence the policy of infection control in maritime transport. The safety of not only passengers, but also residents of Europe and other regions depends on the effectiveness of the measures taken now.
