10 May 2026 Agency /

The head of the World Health Organization (WHO), Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, has reassured residents as a ship reportedly affected by Hantavirus makes its way to Spain’s Canary Islands. He emphasized that the situation is “not another COVID-19 pandemic” and that the current public health risk is low.

The vessel, MV Hondius, flying the Netherlands flag, carries more than 140 passengers and crew members. It is expected to arrive at Tenerife early Sunday morning after traveling near the West African coast.

Dr. Tedros, alongside Spain’s Health Minister Mónica García and Interior Minister Fernando Grande-Marlaska, arrived in Tenerife on Saturday to coordinate the safe disembarkation of passengers and crew. Speaking to locals, Dr. Tedros acknowledged that concerns from the COVID-19 pandemic are understandable but stressed that the Hantavirus situation is under control and does not pose a similar threat.

Authorities, including WHO, Spanish health officials, and the ship’s operating company, report that no one on board has shown any symptoms. Continuous monitoring of passengers and crew is underway to ensure their safety.