WHO reassures Tenerife as hantavirus-hit cruise ship prepares to dock

The World Health Organization's chief reassured residents of Tenerife on Saturday as Spanish health authorities prepared to receive the MV Hondius cruise ship, which has been linked to an ongoing hantavirus outbreak.

The vessel's arrival marks a critical phase in managing the infectious disease cases detected aboard the ship. Hantavirus, a potentially serious pathogen transmitted through contact with infected rodents and their droppings, has prompted heightened health protocols across Spanish territory.

The WHO's reassurance to local residents suggests containment measures are in place and the situation remains manageable. Spanish authorities have coordinated medical preparations ahead of the ship's docking to ensure proper isolation and treatment of affected individuals.

The outbreak highlights ongoing challenges in public health management during maritime operations. Health officials have emphasized that transmission risk remains limited when proper precautions are followed.