Two Indian Crew Members Evacuated from Hantavirus-Infected Cruise Ship to Netherlands

Two Indian crew members aboard the Dutch-operated cruise ship MV Hondius were evacuated to the Netherlands after a hantavirus outbreak on board, the Embassy of India in Spain said on May 10, 2026. The individuals are asymptomatic and have been placed under quarantine in accordance with health safety protocols, as confirmed by the Spanish National Centre for Emergency Monitoring and Coordination (CENEM).

The MV Hondius, operated by Oceanwide Expeditions, departed from Ushuaia, Argentina, on April 1 and arrived in Spain's Canary Islands on May 10 with around 150 people on board. Passengers disembarked following World Health Organization and Spanish health authorities' guidelines, with disinfection procedures and personal protective equipment used throughout the operation. WHO experts are supporting Spanish health officials in epidemiological assessments and coordinating charter flights for affected individuals.

Five passengers who left the ship have tested positive for hantavirus, according to The Associated Press, with three deaths linked to the outbreak since it was first reported. Hantavirus is primarily transmitted through contact with infected rodents or inhalation of aerosolized particles from their excreta, typically in enclosed or poorly ventilated spaces such as ships and storage areas. The incubation period ranges from one to eight weeks.

Indian Ambassador to Spain Jayant N. Khobragade is in direct contact with Spanish authorities and the two Indian nationals to ensure their welfare. The Netherlands and Spanish health agencies continue to monitor the situation as part of an ongoing public health response.