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Hantavirus Fears Spark Protest Over Tenerife Port Arrival
8 May
Summary
- Cruise ship passengers will be transported by small boats and road.
- Protesters demand safety guarantees before ship's arrival.
- UK arranging repatriation flight for symptomatic passengers.

A cruise ship is expected to arrive in Tenerife this weekend, raising significant concerns among local residents regarding potential viral transmission. The Netherlands-based Oceanwide Expeditions confirmed that no passengers or crew currently exhibit symptoms.
Despite assurances, Canary Islands residents have questioned the decision to allow the ship to dock. Demonstrators insist on safety, with a dock workers' union threatening to block the vessel if safety guarantees are not met.
Passengers will be transported in stages, initially by small boats and then by road to waiting aircraft for repatriation. UK authorities are arranging a dedicated flight under strict infection control measures for British nationals.
Public health specialists will monitor British passengers on the repatriation flight to ensure preventative measures are in place.