WHO chief says Hantavirus outbreak ‘is not COVID’ | World Health Organization
WHO Director-General Assures Tenerife Residents Amid Hantavirus Concerns
TENERIFE, Spain — World Health Organization Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus reassured residents of Tenerife on May 9, 2026, that the recent docking of a cruise ship affected by a Hantavirus outbreak does not present a risk of precipitating a pandemic similar to COVID-19.
Tedros, addressing concerns in the local community, emphasized that while the Hantavirus is a serious concern, it operates differently from the virus that caused the COVID-19 pandemic. Health officials urge the public to remain informed but calm as they monitor the situation closely.
The incident has raised public awareness regarding viral outbreaks, but health experts maintain that transmission risks are being managed and appropriate safety measures are being implemented.
