"Viruses do not care about politics, and they do not respect borders. The best immunity any of us has is solidarity." — Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus
WHO Chief Addresses Tenerife on Hantavirus Outbreak Aboard MV Hondius
Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, Director-General of the World Health Organization (WHO), has issued a direct message to the people of Tenerife regarding the hantavirus situation aboard the cruise ship MV Hondius.
Key Details
- The virus involved is the Andes strain of hantavirus.
- Three people have died; the WHO assesses the public health risk to Tenerife residents as low.
- No symptomatic passengers currently remain on the ship.
- A WHO expert is on board, and medical supplies are in place.
- Spain’s plan: Passengers will disembark at the industrial port of Granadilla, transported in sealed, guarded vehicles through a cordoned-off corridor, and repatriated directly to their home countries.
Background
The ship has been at sea for weeks with nearly 150 people from 23 countries. Tenerife was identified as the nearest port with sufficient medical capacity under International Health Regulations.
Spain agreed to receive the ship—an action Tedros described as "an act of solidarity and moral duty." Tedros plans to travel to Tenerife to observe the operation and thank local workers.
Statements
"Viruses do not care about politics, and they do not respect borders. The best immunity any of us has is solidarity."
Tedros also thanked the ship's captain, crew, operating company, and Spanish authorities for their collaboration.