The cruise ship, MV Hondius, which was at the center of a hantavirus outbreak resulting in 13 confirmed cases and three deaths, has been given the green light to resume operations after undergoing a thorough cleaning and disinfection process. The Dutch public health agency has stated that there are no longer any obstacles preventing the ship from setting sail again.
Following the outbreak, the UK Health Security Agency instructed the 22 British passengers onboard to undergo testing at Arrowe Park Hospital in Merseyside, where they entered quarantine on May 10. While six individuals were allowed to continue their isolation at home on May 13, the remaining 16 passengers are still at the hospital.
After over nine weeks since the first passenger fell ill on April 6, the ship is expected to recommence its voyages. However, the departure of MV Hondius from Rotterdam to Vlissingen has been delayed due to additional cleaning procedures recommended by GGD Rotterdam.
Oceanwide Expeditions, in collaboration with GGD Rotterdam, is ensuring that the vessel is safe for service again. Once the final inspection is completed, the ship will be allowed to depart from Rotterdam. All voyages from June 13 onwards are scheduled to proceed as planned, with no further disruptions expected to the sailing schedule of MV Hondius.
