World Health Organization (WHO) Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus has issued an unusual open letter to the residents of Tenerife, seeking to alleviate anxieties surrounding the imminent arrival of a cruise ship associated with a hantavirus outbreak. The Dutch-flagged MV Hondius, carrying over 140 passengers and crew, is expected to dock at the Spanish island in the Canary Islands early Sunday.
The ship has been at the center of concern after an outbreak of the Andes strain of hantavirus onboard resulted in three fatalities. Despite some local opposition to the ship's docking, Tedros firmly stated, "this is not another COVID-19," aiming to distinguish the current situation from the recent pandemic.
Hantavirus Outbreak Details
The virus identified on the MV Hondius is the Andes strain of hantavirus, which, in rare instances, can be transmitted between humans. Typically, hantavirus spreads through exposure to infected rodent droppings. Symptoms can manifest anywhere from one to eight weeks after exposure. Tedros confirmed that there were currently no symptomatic passengers on board the vessel, and a WHO expert had already been deployed to assist.
"I know you are worried. I know that when you hear the word ‘outbreak’ and watch a ship sail toward your shores, memories surface that none of us have fully put to rest," Tedros wrote, acknowledging the public's apprehension. However, he stressed, "But I need you to hear me clearly: this is not another COVID-19. The current public health risk from hantavirus remains low."
Spain's Containment Strategy
Tedros outlined the Spanish government's comprehensive containment plan for the passengers. Upon arrival, individuals will be brought ashore at the industrial port of Granadilla, situated far from residential areas. They will then be transported in "sealed, guarded vehicles" through a "completely cordoned-off corridor" for repatriation to their respective home countries. "You will not encounter them. Your families will not encounter them," he assured the residents.
Solidarity and International Regulations
The WHO Director-General defended Spain's decision to receive the ship, highlighting that he personally thanked Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez for what he termed "an act of solidarity and moral duty." He explained that the WHO's request to Spain was made in accordance with the International Health Regulations, which mandate authorities to identify the nearest port with adequate medical capacity during international public health emergencies. "Tenerife met that standard. Spain honoured it," he stated.
Tedros underscored the plight of nearly 150 people from 23 countries who had been stranded at sea for weeks, many grieving and all longing for home. "Tenerife has been chosen because it has the medical capacity, the infrastructure, and the humanity to help them reach safety," he added.
WHO Chief to Visit Tenerife
In a further gesture of reassurance and oversight, Tedros announced his intention to travel to Tenerife personally to observe the operation firsthand. "I intend to travel to Tenerife to observe this operation firsthand, to stand alongside the health workers, port staff, and officials who are making it happen," he wrote. He concluded his letter by urging residents to "trust in the preparations that have been made" and affirmed the WHO's support for every person on the ship.