Response to hantavirus outbreak on cruise ship

International health authorities, including the European Commission and ECDC, are managing an outbreak of the Andes hantavirus linked to the cruise ship MV Hondius. The vessel anchored off Tenerife on May 6, leading to the activation of the EU Civil Protection Mechanism. Six repatriation flights were coordinated by various European nations to safely evacuate 147 passengers of 23 nationalities. Three deaths have been reported among infected individuals, and a 42-day isolation period has been established for contacts. Although the virus is primarily transmitted by rodents, this specific strain has demonstrated rare human-to-human transmission in close quarters. Cyprus health authorities confirmed they are fully prepared with laboratory support and contingency protocols, noting that no cases have been recorded on the island. Officials state the risk to the general European population remains very low. Preventive measures, such as maintaining hygiene in areas inhabited by rodents, are being recommended by experts.