Greece Airlifts Hantavirus Patient From Cruise Ship in Military Evacuation

Sunday, 10 May 2026/Source: Haniotika Nea/1 min read

Greek health authorities are managing the repatriation of a Greek passenger from the cruise ship MV Hondius, where cases of Hantavirus have been confirmed on board. A C-27 military transport aircraft equipped with a special isolation chamber is being used to bring the affected passenger back to Greece under strict medical protocols. Hantavirus is a rare viral disease typically transmitted through contact with infected rodents or their droppings, not through person-to-person contact. Tourists currently visiting Crete or planning a cruise in the region are not considered at direct risk from this incident. However, travelers experiencing flu-like symptoms after potential rodent exposure should seek medical attention promptly. Cruise passengers on other vessels are not affected. Local health authorities are monitoring the situation closely.