Four Canadians who were aboard the hantavirus-stricken cruise ship MV Hondius are returning to British Columbia, officials confirmed. The ship docked at the port of Granadilla in Tenerife, Canary Islands, Spain, on Sunday, May 10, 2026, where passengers disembarked wearing protective gear.
Outbreak Details
The MV Hondius, operated by Oceanwide Expeditions, experienced an outbreak of hantavirus, a rare but potentially fatal disease transmitted through rodent droppings. The outbreak prompted an early end to the cruise and led to the quarantine of passengers. Health authorities in Spain and Canada are coordinating care and monitoring for those affected.
Passenger Return
The four Canadians are said to be in stable condition and will receive follow-up medical attention upon arrival in B.C. The remaining passengers, including international travelers, have been disembarked and are undergoing health screenings. The ship has been thoroughly sanitized, and investigations into the source of the outbreak are ongoing.
Broader Context
Hantavirus cases have nearly doubled in Argentina in the past year, with experts linking the rise to climate change. The virus can cause hantavirus pulmonary syndrome, which has a high mortality rate. Travelers are advised to avoid contact with rodents and their droppings, especially in endemic areas.
This incident highlights the risks of infectious diseases in travel settings and the importance of rapid response to prevent wider spread.
