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Crew of the “Hondius” in quarantineHantavirus ship is set to set off on a new cruise
An improvised quarantine village was set up in the port of Rotterdam for the crew of the cruise ship Hondius. (archive)
picture alliance / abaca / Le Gonidec Margot/ABACA
Quarantine in Rotterdam!
After the hantavirus outbreak on board the expedition cruise “Hondius,” the remaining crew was taken to a mobile quarantine camp in the port of Rotterdam. Meanwhile, preparations are already underway for a comprehensive disinfection of the ship – and a possible next cruise in a few days.
Evacuation after international health alert
Passengers on the ship had previously been evacuated to Tenerife after several deaths related to the hantavirus were reported. The remaining emergency crew and two ship's doctors finally brought the ship safely to the Dutch port, accompanied by authorities.
A dead German passenger was also brought ashore. A total of three deaths are said to be related to the outbreak.
Video tip: German “Hondius” passengers brought to Frankfurt
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Quarantine in mobile accommodation in the port
After their arrival, the approximately 25 crew members and medical staff were moved to a container and living module camp that was set up at short notice. Strict quarantine conditions apply there with daily testing and medical monitoring for a period of up to 42 days.
Reading tip: After Hondius trip: Canadian tested positive for hantavirus
According to the operator “Oceanwide Expeditions”, none of the people in quarantine are currently showing symptoms.
Before the “Hondius” can go back into operation, the ship must be completely decontaminated. Comprehensive disinfection measures are planned for all cabins, common areas and frequently touched surfaces. UV light technology could also be used.
According to experts, common disinfection procedures are generally sufficient to eliminate the virus.
Reading tip: Deadly Hanta virus on cruise! Researchers are now looking for the cause
The WHO and the European Union are said to have coordinated the evacuation and crisis management. At the same time, experts emphasize that there is no evidence of a new, more dangerous virus variant.
New cruise planned despite crisis
Despite the ongoing quarantine and comprehensive disinfection measures, the Dutch company is continuing to operate expedition cruises.
The next voyage of the “Hondius” from Keflavik towards the Arctic is planned for May 29th. However, the authorities should carry out another safety inspection before the planned departure. The situation therefore remains tense.
