As hantavirus ship approaches, Tenerife residents call plan ‘reckless’

The MV Hondius is sailing towards Spain’s Canary Islands after being anchored off Cape Verde for three days and all passengers will be evacuated.

Three people have died on or after traveling on the ship following a hantavirus outbreak.

The cruise ship departed from Argentina a month ago. Spanish Health Minister Monica Garcia said on Wednesday that the cruise ship would dock in the port of Granadilla on the island of Tenerife.

Garcia said everyone on the ship will undergo medical evaluation upon arrival and those arriving from abroad will be repatriated if fit to travel.

People in Tenerife told the BBC they were worried about the ship’s arrival and that residents “could end up having problems on the island”.

One resident said: “I don’t think it’s a good idea… but people do need help.”

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