Spain to receive hantavirus-hit ship in Canary Islands

Spain has announced that it will receive passengers aboard the hantavirus-stricken MV Hondius "in three or four days."

The cruise ship has been moored off the coast of Cape Verde for two days after the hantavirus was detected. Three passengers have died and several other passengers are suspected to have the virus.

Now the ship will be allowed to dock in the Canary Islands, although Spanish authorities did not specify which port.

"Once there, the crew and passengers will be duly examined, cared for, and transferred to their respective countries," the Spanish Health Ministry said late on Tuesday

Why the Canary Islands?

Spain said it made the decision "in accordance with international ​law and humanitarian principles."

"The World Health Organization has explained that ​Cape Verde is unable to carry out this ⁠operation," ​the Spanish Health Ministry said.

"The ​Canary Islands are the ​closest location ‌with the necessary capabilities. Spain has ​a ⁠moral and legal obligation to assist these ⁠people, ​among whom are also several Spanish citizens."

Hantavirus outbreak at sea: Who is legally obliged to help?

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The WHO said medical evacuation plans were underway.

The WHO's representative in Cape Verde told the AFP news agency that the ship "can continue its route" to the Netherlands after the evacuations.

Edited by: Wesley Dockery