Lagos: The World Health Organisation (WHO) on Tuesday emphasised the importance of not abandoning individuals at sea when countries have the capability to manage health risks effectively under international health regulations.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, WHO Director-General Tedros Ghebreyesus highlighted this during an online media conference focused on hantavirus. This statement comes ten days after WHO was first alerted about the health crisis.
Ghebreyesus mentioned WHO’s request for assistance from Ulisses Silva when a ship neared Cabo Verde, resulting in the evacuation of three passengers who showed symptoms of the virus. WHO determined that Cabo Verde lacked the capacity to handle the complete disembarkation and repatriation of all passengers safely and in compliance with health standards.
WHO approached Spain’s Prime Minister Pedro S¡nchez, seeking Spain’s permission to allow the ship’s disembarkation with WHO’s support. The European Union also supported this request. In response, S¡nchez agreed to assist, as confirmed by Ghebreyesus.
Spain, in collaboration with WHO, the Dutch government, and the ship’s operator, successfully coordinated the evacuation and disembarkation within two days. Ghebreyesus expressed gratitude to S¡nchez for Spain’s adherence to international law and its demonstration of solidarity and compassion.
The operation concluded successfully, with all passengers disembarking and leaving Tenerife. The MV Hondius is now en route to the Netherlands. Nearly 150 individuals from 23 countries endured weeks under distressing conditions on the ship, with some experiencing mental health challenges. WHO underscored the need for dignity and compassion for these passengers.
WHO opposed suggestions to quarantine passengers on the ship for the entire period, labelling such proposals as unnecessary and harsh. Ghebreyesus assured that all suspected and confirmed cases were isolated and managed under strict medical supervision, reducing the risk of transmission.
No evidence currently suggests a larger outbreak, though additional infections may occur due to the virus’s long incubation period and emerging reports of possible Andes virus symptoms. WHO recommends a 42-day active monitoring period from the last exposure on May 10 until June 12. Symptomatic individuals should be isolated and treated promptly.
Ghebreyesus reiterated WHO’s commitment to working with experts and affected nations through International Health Regulations, stressing that global solidarity is crucial in combating infectious diseases that transcend borders.