WHO Director‑General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said the evacuation, disembarkation plus repatriation of more than 120 passengers from 23 countries in May 2026 proceeded exactly as planned, following strict health protocols agreed with Spanish authorities plus international partners.
The operation was carried out at the port of Granadilla de Abona, where controlled procedures ensured that passengers were transferred through a sealed corridor, minimising risk to the local population while allowing urgent care plus repatriation.
Tedros said the response demonstrated the effectiveness of coordinated public health action, with science‑based planning combined with international cooperation. Tedros also said the operation should be remembered as an example of collective responsibility rather than only technical success.
The Spanish government was credited with delivering a rapid plus comprehensive response under international health obligations, with additional recognition given to local authorities, health teams, port officials plus emergency personnel involved in the operation.
Tedros also acknowledged the role of the ship’s crew, who maintained order plus support during weeks at sea under difficult conditions while managing illness, confinement plus uncertainty.
The WHO message included recognition of the human cost of the crisis. Three passengers died during the outbreak, with condolences extended to their families. Tedros also noted the death of a member of the Guardia Civil during the operation, describing the loss as service in the line of duty.
With the emergency phase complete, the operation has entered a monitoring stage. Passengers plus crew remain under follow‑up during a 42‑day observation period, reflecting the incubation characteristics of the virus.
Tedros said the Tenerife response showed that solidarity remains central to effective crisis management, describing the outcome as a demonstration of how communities can respond to global health emergencies with discipline, coordination plus compassion.
–WHO/ChannelAfrica–
