Spanish hantavirus patient released from military hospital after cruise outbreak

The first Spanish case of hantavirus, a 70‑year‑old passenger from the cruise MV Hondius, has been discharged from the Hospital Central de la Defensa Gómez Ulla in Madrid. After three consecutive days without symptoms and two negative laboratory tests, the Ministry of Health confirmed that he no longer needs to observe quarantine. He will remain under clinical monitoring for six months, with monthly check‑ups to detect any possible long‑term effects.

Thirteen other Spanish passengers from the same cruise remain hospitalized at Gómez Ulla. One passenger continues to test positive but shows only mild fever, while the remaining travelers are asymptomatic. Health authorities expect most to be discharged within the coming days. All must complete a 42‑day quarantine period, including at least 14 days of home isolation, during which they may leave the house briefly while wearing a mask. Ongoing epidemiological and clinical follow‑up is being coordinated by national public‑health services and emergency medical teams.