A cruise ship that caused a global health scare due to a hantavirus outbreak has been given approval to resume operations following a thorough cleaning process. The MV Hondius experienced three fatalities and ten infections from the rat-borne virus earlier this month, raising concerns about potential human-to-human transmission worldwide.

After evacuating over 170 passengers and crew members, including 30 British nationals, the MV Hondius underwent a comprehensive disinfection in Rotterdam. Authorities confirmed the ship had undergone extensive cleaning and checks, allowing it to sail again without any hindrances. Hazmat-clad workers conducted four critical inspections and a deep cleaning during its stay in the Netherlands.

Upon arrival at the Port of Rotterdam on May 18, the ship underwent a decontamination program that involved a meticulous cleaning routine lasting several days. Crew members wore personal protective equipment (PPE) to ensure both thorough sanitization of the vessel and their own safety, avoiding the need for post-cleaning quarantine.

The 25 crew members and two medical staff who remained on board from the Canary Islands to the Netherlands were immediately quarantined upon arrival to monitor any potential virus symptoms during the 42-day incubation period. Stringent rodent inspections were also conducted to eliminate any sources of the virus on the ship.

Health experts and the public health agency in Rotterdam conducted a final inspection on May 29, confirming the ship’s cleanliness and the success of the decontamination process. The World Health Organization stated that the virus seemed contained, emphasizing the importance of ongoing vigilance and care for all passengers and crew under quarantine.

Oceanwide Expeditions, the company operating the MV Hondius, plans to resume operations as early as June 13 for its upcoming voyage through the Arctic, including stops in Svalbard, Norway.