Note: Single-source report; awaiting corroboration.
The Director-General of the World Health Organization (WHO), Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, announced he will travel to Tenerife to supervise the arrival and disembarkation of nearly 150 passengers and crew from the MV Hondius, a vessel affected by a hantavirus outbreak that has resulted in three fatalities.
Dr. Tedros addressed Tenerife residents, emphasizing the need for calm and solidarity. He distinguished the situation from the COVID-19 pandemic, stating, "this is not another COVID." He explained that the virus onboard is the Andes strain of hantavirus, the only type known for human-to-human transmission, but assured the public that the risk remains low.
Spanish authorities have enforced strict measures, docking the vessel at the industrial port of Granadilla, away from residential areas. Passengers will be transported in sealed, guarded vehicles through a cordoned-off corridor directly to their home countries, a protocol designed to prevent any local contact.
The WHO's involvement followed International Health Regulations, which require the nearest equipped port to assist in such health emergencies. The passengers represent 23 countries and have been at sea for several weeks after the first probable case—a passenger who traveled through South America and died onboard.
Dr. Tedros commended Spain's Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez and Tenerife's residents for their response, highlighting their medical capacity, infrastructure, and humanity in managing this international health challenge.