Officials indicated the ship is likely to dock in Gran Canaria or Tenerife within the next few days, where passengers and crew will undergo medical screening under strict prevention protocols.
The crisis on the ship includes an outbreak of hantavirus, which has so far killed three people, including a Dutch couple and a German national.
The World Health Organization (WHO) has reported seven cases – two confirmed and five suspected – among people who were on the ship during the voyage from Argentina. A British national who tested positive is currently receiving treatment in South Africa.
Two crew members, including the ship’s doctor, require immediate medical care and are being evacuated via hospital aircraft. Another person with suspected infection is also preparing to be shifted.
Spanish authorities said all necessary precautions will be taken to avoid contact with the public during the evacuation and upon arrival.
Spain’s health ministry said that once in the Canary Islands, all individuals would be screened, treated if necessary and then flown back to their home countries in coordination with international health agencies.
Health officials believe the outbreak may involve the Andes strain of hantavirus, which can spread by close human contact, although such transmission is rare.
WHO suggested that infection probably spread between individuals in close areas such as shared cabins, while initial exposure may have occurred before boarding or during wildlife excursions. About 149 passengers and crew from 23 countries remain on board the ship under strict isolation measures.
Despite the seriousness of the situation on the ship, officials have stressed that the risk to the wider public is low. All interactions with passengers will take place in specially designated facilities and transportation systems designed to prevent any contact with local residents.
The voyage, marketed as an Antarctic expedition cruise, had covered remote destinations before the outbreak came to light.
