The first case of “hantavirus” is expected under extreme security measures in Spain

Spanish authorities have organised an unprecedented operation to host the ship at the port of Granadilla and to evacuate over 100 people aboard. Even though the ship arrived near the port before dawn, it was not immediately allowed to dock, for a sea mile perimeter was set around it.

According to the Health Ministry in Spain, the operation to prevent the spread of the rare “Andes” of the hantavirus is among the most complex ever developed in the country. There are 23 states involved in the operation, and extreme security measures have been taken to avoid any danger to the local population.

Health Minister Mónica García said the “risk of infection for the population is low”, criticising the alarming and disinformation that are circulated over the case.

The industrial port south of Tenerife has significantly increased security measures. Military police and emergency teams have set up reception tents, while entry into the area is limited.

After the ship was docked, medical teams were expected to board to check all passengers and crew for symptoms of the virus. According to recent reports, there are no new cases of symptoms.

Passengers will be divided according to citizenship and transported in small boats to the coast, where charter aircraft are ready to return to their countries.

Meanwhile, aircraft equipped for medical emergencies are on alert if any individuals should be sent to isolation. Spanish citizens will be transferred to Madrid, where they will face mandatory quarantine at the “Gomez Ulla” military hospital.

The head of the World Health Organization, Tedros Adhanom Ghebraesesus, who is in Tenerife to oversee the operation, commended the Spanish authorities for “the solid and effective response” to the explosion.

The virus is believed to have been linked to a garbage dump in southern Argentina, where it is carried by rodents. Although it is rarely transmitted among humans, three passengers of the ship have thus far lost their lives.

The case has caused tension and protests in Tenerife, where some residents and portal employees have expressed fear of the island's security. The president of the Canary Islands, Fernando Clavius, even warned that an infected mouse could get off the ship and risk residents, which was rejected by health authorities.

However, citizens seem to be gradually calming down. “Virus is dangerous, but they say it takes very close contact to infect”, said a tenerfe resident.

While most passengers will leave the ship, about 30 crew members will remain on board to return “MV Hondius” in Holland. For passengers, after weeks of fear and uncertainty at sea, the end of this opissation seems finally near even though it awaits a long quarantine.