Milan, 5 May (LaPresse) – ‘Based on the epidemiological data collected by the ship during its stopover in Cape Verde, a decision will be made as to which port of call is most appropriate. Until then, the Ministry of Health will not take any decision, as we have already informed the World Health Organisation.’ This was stated by the Spanish Ministry of Health, after the WHO had announced that the cruise ship on which an outbreak of hantavirus had been declared, currently anchored off the coast of Cape Verde, would be heading for the Canary Islands, where it would be taken into custody. ‘We are working with the Spanish authorities, who have informed us that they will take charge of the ship and conduct a thorough investigation, a comprehensive epidemiological investigation, a complete disinfection of the ship and, of course, assess the risk to the passengers on board,’ said Maria Van Kerkhove, the WHO’s Director of Epidemic and Pandemic Prevention and Preparedness.