Two Indians Evacuated from Hantavirus-Stricken Cruise Ship to Netherlands for Quarantine

Two Indian nationals aboard the Dutch-registered cruise ship MV Hondius were evacuated to the Netherlands for quarantine after a hantavirus outbreak on board, the Embassy of India in Spain confirmed Sunday. The individuals, crew members on the Oceanwide Expeditions vessel, are asymptomatic and being monitored under Dutch health safety protocols.

The MV Hondius, which departed from Ushuaia, Argentina on April 1, arrived in the Canary Islands, Spain, where all approximately 150 passengers and crew disembarked following coordination between WHO experts, Spanish health authorities, and the Interior Ministry. Disinfection procedures and personal protective equipment were used throughout the evacuation process, according to Spanish health officials.

Five passengers have tested positive for hantavirus, and three deaths have been reported since the outbreak emerged. The World Health Organization confirmed that all individuals involved in the disembarkation are currently asymptomatic, and epidemiological assessments are ongoing. The two Indians remain in contact with Indian Ambassador Jayant N Khobragade, who is coordinating with Spanish and Dutch authorities.

The Dutch and Spanish health agencies will continue monitoring the evacuated crew and passengers, with further updates expected as test results and contact tracing assessments are completed. The court will resume hearing on Tuesday.