A hantavirus-hit cruise ship has been anchored off Cape Verde and is now preparing to head to Spain rather than remain there.
Spanish authorities said Tuesday the vessel would be received in the Canary Islands within three to four days.
The MV Hondius has been moored for two days after a hantavirus outbreak was detected on board, leaving three passengers dead and several others suspected to be infected.
Spain’s Health Ministry said passengers and crew would be examined, treated and later transferred to their home countries once the ship docks. Authorities did not specify which port in the Canary Islands would receive the vessel.
The government said the decision was based on international law and humanitarian principles, adding that Cape Verde lacked the capacity to manage the situation. Spain also noted that the Canary Islands were the nearest location with adequate facilities and that several Spanish citizens were among those on board.
https://www.dw.com/en/hantavirus-canary-islands-objects-to-docking-of-cruise-ship/live-77063670