Spain to allow virus-hit ship to dock in Canary Islands

Authorities in Spain have granted permission for a Netherlands-flagged luxury cruise ship hit by a deadly hantavirus outbreak and anchored off Cape Verde to sail to the Canary Islands.

In a statement late on Tuesday, Spain's Health Ministry said the World Health Organization had explained that Cape Verde, in West Africa, could not receive the 147 passengers and crew of the MV Hondius.

"The Canary Islands are the closest location with the necessary capabilities," the ministry said. "Spain has a moral and legal obligation to assist these people, among whom are also several Spanish citizens."