Britons are being repatriated from the MV Hondius cruise ship, which has been affected by a hantavirus outbreak. Around 22 British passengers and crew members are expected to dock in Tenerife before returning to the UK on the same day.
Upon arrival in Tenerife, the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) and the Foreign Office officials will meet the ship to conduct hantavirus tests on the Britons. Those who test negative and show no symptoms will be immediately transferred to a repatriation flight equipped with medical staff and necessary supplies.
The ship’s scheduled docking in Tenerife on Sunday is subject to weather conditions as it navigates from the coast of Cape Verde. Most returning Britons are advised to self-isolate at home, with alternative accommodations arranged by UKHSA if needed.
Current reports indicate that two British men are receiving treatment for hantavirus in the Netherlands and South Africa, while another individual is under care on Tristan da Cunha. Out of the 30 British passengers and crew members on the MV Hondius, 22 remain on board.
Efforts are underway to trace and contact individuals who had contact with the British nationals who left the ship. The UKHSA is closely monitoring the health status of the Britons on the vessel, who are currently asymptomatic.
Strict measures are in place for the repatriation process, with passengers required to undergo a 45-day self-isolation period and testing. Health experts are investigating the virus transmission dynamics, with no evidence suggesting increased transmissibility of the current viral strain.
The World Health Organization has affirmed improved conditions on the ship and is conducting medical assessments on all individuals aboard. Concerns persist over potential additional cases due to the virus’s prolonged incubation period.
The outbreak has been linked to a birdwatching expedition in Argentina, with a suspected hantavirus case reported in Alicante, Spain. Expert opinions emphasize the importance of appropriate measures taken by UK authorities to safeguard the affected citizens and the wider population.
