Hantavirus Outbreak Aboard Cruise Ship Ends in Rotterdam

The MV Hondius cruise ship, marred by a lethal hantavirus outbreak, has docked at the Dutch port of Rotterdam for disinfection, concluding a hazardous journey that heightened international health concerns. As it arrived Monday morning, wearing masks, crew and medical personnel were observed by journalists as they were escorted through the port by tugboat and police.

Health authorities announced that crew members will undergo immediate quarantine. The outbreak claimed three lives, including a Dutch couple believed to have contracted the virus in South America. Over six days, the MV Hondius traveled from the Canary Islands, with remaining passengers, clad in full protective gear, disembarked and flown to over 20 countries for quarantine.

This incident marks the first known hantavirus outbreak on a cruise ship. The vessel will adhere to Dutch health guidelines for decontamination before resuming voyages. The cruise operator plans no operational changes and eyes an Arctic cruise from Iceland on May 29.

(With inputs from agencies.)