The MV Hondius, a Netherlands-flagged expedition cruise ship, is at the center of a public health concern after a hantavirus outbreak was reported on May 4, 2026. Philippine authorities announced that 24 of the 38 Filipino crew members will undergo a mandatory 42-day quarantine upon arrival in the Netherlands.
Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) Secretary Hans Leo Cacdac confirmed that four of the crew will disembark in the Canary Islands on May 10, while 20 others will follow on May 11. These crew members primarily held stewardship roles aboard the ship.
After disembarking, they will take a repatriation flight to the Netherlands for quarantine. The remaining 14 crew members will sail the ship to Rotterdam and also face quarantine upon arrival.
Secretary Cacdac emphasized that the DMW is preparing for the crew's return to the Philippines after they complete their quarantine and testing in the Netherlands.
Health Secretary Teodoro Herbosa stated that no further testing will be necessary once the crew members are released from quarantine. He assured that the country is ready to provide any medical assistance required.
The MV Hondius docked in Tenerife, Canary Islands, where passengers and some crew members were evacuated in groups. All symptomatic crew and passengers had already received medical assistance by May 6, with remaining individuals declared asymptomatic as of May 7.
Response to the Hantavirus Outbreak
The outbreak prompted responses from both Oceanwide Expeditions, the ship's owner, and the World Health Organization. The WHO confirmed that three passengers had died, with two confirmed hantavirus cases.
This is not another COVID, and the risk to the public is low. — WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus
Cacdac reported a positive update after a virtual meeting with crew members, who confirmed they tested negative for the virus. He noted that while the crew feels safe, their priority remains to return home.