A French woman who is now critically ill with hantavirus after being evacuated from the MV Hondius cruise ship was initially told by doctors that her symptoms were due to anxiety, a Spanish minister has revealed.
Critical Condition in Paris Hospital
The woman is currently in a critical condition in a Paris hospital after testing positive for the virus. The hantavirus outbreak on the ship has resulted in three deaths: a Dutch couple and a German national. A total of eight infections have been confirmed among passengers and crew.
Evacuation and Quarantine
Nearly 120 passengers and crew from 23 nations were evacuated from the luxury vessel in Tenerife, Spain. Spanish authorities described the operation as 'complex' and 'unprecedented', involving military planes and strict quarantine protocols. Passengers are now undergoing a 45-day isolation period in various countries.
Origin of Outbreak
While the exact cause remains unconfirmed, the outbreak is believed to have originated from a birdwatching trip in Argentina involving the first infected passengers. An American passenger tested positive for the Andes strain, which is known for person-to-person transmission. Spanish and WHO officials have emphasised that the overall risk to the public remains low and is not comparable to Covid.
