“The World Health Organization (WHO), in cooperation with the European Union, has asked the Spanish government to accept the naval vessel Hondius in the Canary Islands in accordance with international law and humanitarian principles,” announced the Spanish Ministry of Health.
Among others, Spain will also take on the infected ship’s doctor. “He is in serious condition and will be airlifted to the Canary Islands separately,” the announcement reads.
“Two passengers showing symptoms of hantavirus will be transferred to the Netherlands. A third passenger considered a ‘high-risk contact’ will be transferred to Germany,” wrote the Spanish newspaper El País.
According to data from the marine website Marine Traffic, the ship is still located near the Cape Verde Islands on Wednesday morning. Madrid announced that upon arrival in the Canary Islands, medical teams will examine all passengers and crew and begin treatment. Subsequently, they should all be transported to their home countries.
“The Canary Islands are the closest place with the necessary capacities. Spain has a moral and legal obligation to help these people, among whom are several Spanish citizens,” the Spanish Ministry of Health said.
