Canary Islands defies Spain over cruise ship carrying hantavirus passengers

A dispute has erupted between the Canary Islands government and Spain’s central authorities over the docking of a cruise ship carrying hantavirus cases. Fernando Clavijo, president of the Canary Islands, attempted to block the MV Hondius from arriving in Tenerife, citing fears of disease transmission. The conflict escalated after Health Minister Mónica García dismissed concerns about rats or mosquitoes spreading the virus.

The MV Hondius, carrying passengers infected with the Andes strain of hantavirus, became the centre of the row. Clavijo argued that no scientific evidence could guarantee public safety, even demanding an urgent meeting with Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez. He accused the central government of institutional disloyalty after it approved the ship’s arrival, a decision later praised by the World Health Organization for showing solidarity.

Clavijo raised specific concerns about rats swimming ashore and spreading the virus. In response, he used AI tools to search for proof that rats could swim, presenting his findings to the minister. García countered by explaining that hantavirus does not transmit through swimming rodents or mosquitoes. Instead, the disease spreads via contact with infected rodent faeces or secretions. Experts clarified that the long-tailed pygmy rice rat—the natural carrier of the Andes virus—does not exist in Europe. This made Clavijo’s claims about swimming rats bringing the virus to shore scientifically implausible. Despite reassurances, the Canary Islands leader maintained his opposition, insisting the risks remained too high. The Andes virus, unlike other hantavirus strains, can pass between humans. This added to Clavijo’s concerns, though health officials stressed that proper containment measures would prevent an outbreak.

The MV Hondius was ultimately allowed to dock in Tenerife under strict health protocols. Clavijo’s objections did not halt the ship’s arrival, but the debate highlighted tensions between regional and national authorities. The incident also underscored the challenges of managing infectious disease risks in international travel.