The Ghana Health Service (GHS) says it has increased surveillance and preparedness procedures in response to reports of Hantavirus illnesses on a cruise liner moored in Cape Verde.
The Ministry of Health and GHS reported in a statement on May 8, 2026, that as of May 7, there were eight suspected cases, five confirmed infections, and three fatalities related to the outbreak on the ship.
According to reports, the ship’s passengers came from a number of nations, including the United States, portions of Europe, South America, Australia, and Asia, while the crew was primarily from the Philippines.
After evaluating the situation, the World Health Organization (WHO) and the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) stated that the risk to global public health is still minimal, according to health officials.
They have, however, called on nations to bolster their systems of preparedness and surveillance.
According to GHS, contact with infected rodents or contact with their excrement, urine, saliva, or contaminated surfaces are the primary ways that the Hantavirus is spread.
Fever, headache, muscle soreness, abdominal pain, nausea, and, in extreme situations, breathing difficulties are among the symptoms.
The Service emphasised that there are currently no cases reported in Ghana.
However, it stated that in order to lower any potential danger of importation, preventive steps had been implemented through its Port Health Division and other public health agencies.
All ports of entry, including airports and seaports, have implemented increased screening and surveillance as part of the response.
Additionally, health facilities nationwide have been instructed to increase the surveillance and reporting of any uncommon respiratory ailments.
The GHS added that it is stepping up public education on cleanliness and rodent control while bolstering laboratory systems and quick reaction capabilities.
In order to guarantee timely information exchange, it also confirmed continued cooperation with international partners, such as the WHO and global disease surveillance networks.
The public has been urged to practise good hygiene, keep their surroundings tidy, store food correctly, dispose of waste safely and stay away from rats and their droppings.
Additionally, the Service advised individuals to wear protective clothing when cleaning possibly contaminated locations and to get medical help right away if they have symptoms like fever or respiratory problems, particularly following travel or potential exposure.
Ghana’s disease monitoring systems are still operational and equipped to respond to any possible threat, the Ministry of Health and GHS have told the public. They have urged individuals to maintain composure and rely on verified health reports.
Read GHS Statement Below:
Source: newsthemegh.com