Mass protests have erupted in Tenerife ahead of the expected arrival of a cruise ship affected by hantavirus, a rodent-borne disease that can cause severe symptoms in humans. Dock workers and local residents gathered with banners reading 'Without protocol, no safety' and 'Port without means, Port unsafe,' expressing anger at the Spanish government's decision to allow the ship to dock.
Ship Details and Health Status
The MV Hondius, operated by Netherlands-based Oceanwide Expeditions, is carrying over 140 passengers and crew members. None of those on board currently show symptoms, according to the company. The ship is expected to reach Tenerife on Saturday or Sunday, where Spanish health authorities plan to conduct careful evacuations.
Local Concerns and Protests
Residents fear the virus could spread among the local population. Many question why the Spanish government agreed to let the ship stop in Tenerife. Protesters held placards saying 'unsafe port' and 'for work no, for the risk yes.' One local told media, 'They treat us like rubbish,' while another said, 'It’s the same story as with Covid. They’re not fooling us. We’re fed up with the Canary Islands being Pedro Sánchez’s dumping ground.'
The president of the Tenerife Port Authority, Pedro Suárez, attempted to calm tensions by explaining passengers would be transferred in shifts via small boats and then by road directly to a plane for repatriation. However, union spokesperson Elena Ruiz from the Platform for the Port of Tenerife threatened to block the ship's entry unless safety guarantees are provided.
UK Response and Repatriation
The UK Health Security Agency confirmed that none of the British citizens on board are currently symptomatic but are being closely monitored. UK Government staff will be on the ground to support British nationals disembarking. A dedicated repatriation flight is being organized for passengers and crew, with strict infection control measures in place. Public health specialists from UKHSA and the NHS will be on board to monitor and provide care if needed.
Spanish authorities maintain there is a 'moral and legal obligation' to assist those on the ship, but local protests continue to grow as the ship's arrival approaches.
