Cruise Ship Hondius Hantavirus Outbreak Triggers Extra Cleaning in Rotterdam
The MV Hondius cruise ship has been linked to an outbreak of the Andes strain of hantavirus, resulting in 12 reported cases and three fatalities. The vessel docked in Rotterdam, Netherlands, where the regional health authority (GGD) ordered additional sanitation measures before the ship can depart.
Oceanwide Expeditions confirmed the extra cleaning is being carried out on GGD’s advice and that the authority will perform a final inspection before the ship leaves port. All passengers and crew remain in quarantine and are being monitored, while the World Health Organization’s director‑general stated the situation is stable and the risk to the general public is low. The company said voyages scheduled from 13 June onward will proceed as planned.
The outbreak underscores the potential for rare person‑to‑person transmission of the Andes virus and has prompted close coordination between the cruise line, Dutch health officials and the WHO.