The Dutch passenger vessel “MV Hondius,” where a hantavirus outbreak was detected onboard, has arrived at the port of Rotterdam.
According to nu.nl, the ship docked at berth 7 at approximately 10:30 local time. Crew members were disembarked under medical supervision and, together with passengers, were placed in specially prepared quarantine modules within the port area.
Security and law enforcement agencies implemented extensive control measures in the surrounding area, restricting access and isolating the quarantine zone.
Disinfection operations are scheduled to begin tomorrow and are expected to continue for several days. Specialized sanitation teams will carry out cleaning procedures both on the vessel and within the quarantine facilities.
Reports indicate that the MV Hondius departed from Ushuaia, Argentina, in early April. During the voyage, passengers experienced acute respiratory symptoms.
According to the World Health Organization, hantavirus infections linked to the Andes strain have been confirmed on board. Several cases have been recorded, including reported fatalities. The WHO has stated that the current risk of a large-scale outbreak remains low, but the situation is being closely monitored.
