The outbreak of hantavirus aboard the MV Hondius cruise ship has sparked intense debate over how to manage the situation, especially after passengers were quarantined at Madrid’s Gómez Ulla Hospital. Now, Spain’s Secretary of State for Health, Javier Padilla, has provided a clear timeline for when the infected Spanish passengers may be considered virus-free and allowed to leave.
Padilla confirmed that the quarantine period for the MV Hondius passengers will be counted from May 6, the last day of potential exposure, and could extend up to 42 days. This decision was made after a detailed analysis of all interactions aboard the ship.
The first week of quarantine will be the strictest. During this period, the first and second PCR test results will be obtained, and the 14 affected Spanish passengers will not be allowed any visitors. After that, the situation will be reassessed on a weekly basis. Padilla stressed that officials will proceed cautiously, without ruling out the possibility of allowing patients to complete their quarantine at home, but also without promising early relaxation of restrictions.
“Our goal is not to undermine their morale,” Padilla said, adding that decisions will be made week by week, keeping all options open but prioritizing prudence. The health ministry aims to balance infection control with the well-being of the passengers, ensuring that the quarantine is both effective and humane.
