One New Zealander is believed to be on board the MV Hondius, a cruise ship currently docked in the Canary Islands, Spain, following a hantavirus outbreak. The virus, which can be deadly, has prompted health authorities to consider quarantine measures for passengers returning to New Zealand.
As of May 10, 2026, the ship is in the Canary Islands, and New Zealand health officials are monitoring the situation. The exact number of cases on board has not been confirmed, but the risk of transmission has led to discussions about mandatory quarantine for the New Zealand passenger upon arrival.
Hantavirus is typically spread through rodent droppings and can cause severe respiratory illness. The outbreak on the MV Hondius is unusual for a cruise setting, and authorities are taking precautions to prevent any spread to New Zealand.
