Regional leader questions why passengers cannot disembark in Cape Verde.
The president of the Canary Islands, Fernando Clavijo, has opposed plans for the virus-hit cruise ship MV Hondius to dock in Tenerife. He said it “does not make sense” for passengers to travel three more days from Cape Verde when they could be repatriated directly from there.
Clavijo raised concerns about the lack of coordination, saying regional authorities have not been informed by the Government of Spain or the World Health Organization. He added that no medical protocol is currently in place in Tenerife to handle such an “extraordinary” situation.
The ship, carrying about 150 passengers, has been dealing with a suspected outbreak of Hantavirus. An outbreak which has already led to multiple deaths and medical evacuations. While some infected passengers have been flown out for treatment, others remain onboard under strict health measures.
Clavijo questioned why Cape Verde refused disembarkation and called for greater transparency from national authorities. He stressed that decisions should prioritise passenger safety.
Passengers onboard have reportedly remained calm, with many believing the infection risk is low despite the situation.
The dispute highlights growing tensions over how to manage the unfolding health crisis and where responsibility lies.
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