WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus has issued a direct message to the people of Tenerife, where the cruise ship MV Hondius, affected by a hantavirus outbreak, is scheduled to dock early Sunday. In an unusual personal address, he sought to reassure residents that the risk to them remains low.
WHO Chief's Personal Appeal
Tedros began by acknowledging the anxiety that the word 'outbreak' evokes, especially given the painful memories of the COVID-19 pandemic. He emphasized that the current situation is fundamentally different and that the public health risk from hantavirus is low. The virus involved is the Andes strain of hantavirus, which has tragically claimed three lives. The WHO's assessment, he stressed, is that the risk to the general population in Tenerife is minimal.
Precautionary Measures in Place
The WHO chief detailed the comprehensive measures being implemented to ensure safety. Currently, there are no symptomatic passengers on board, and a WHO expert is present on the ship. Medical supplies have been provided. Spanish authorities have devised a meticulous plan: passengers will be transported ashore at the industrial port of Granadilla, far from residential areas, in sealed and guarded vehicles through a cordoned-off corridor. They will then be repatriated directly to their home countries. Tedros assured residents that they will not encounter the passengers.
Solidarity and Legal Framework
Tedros personally thanked Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez for Spain's decision to accept the ship, describing it as an act of solidarity and moral duty. He clarified that the WHO's request was made in full accordance with the International Health Regulations, which require identifying the nearest port with sufficient medical capacity. Tenerife met that standard, and Spain honored its obligations. Nearly 150 people from 23 countries have been at sea for weeks, some grieving and all anxious to return home.
WHO Chief to Visit Tenerife
In a significant show of support, Tedros announced his intention to travel to Tenerife to observe the operation firsthand, stand with health workers and officials, and pay respects to the island for its grace, solidarity, and compassion. He emphasized that viruses do not respect borders and that solidarity is the best immunity. He also commended the exemplary collaboration of the ship's captain, crew, and operating company.
On behalf of the WHO and the passengers' families worldwide, Tedros thanked the people of Tenerife and all involved, urging trust in the preparations and reminding everyone that the WHO stands with them every step of the way.
