GHS Heightens Surveillance As Deadly Hantavirus Outbreak Hits Cruise Ship In Cape Verde

The Ghana Health Service? has assured the public that enhanced disease surveillance and preparedness measures have been activated across the country following reports of a Hantavirus outbreak aboard a cruise ship currently docked in Cape Verde.

According to a press release issued by the Ministry of Health and the Ghana Health Service, a total of eight suspected cases of the viral infection have so far been recorded on the vessel, with five cases confirmed and three deaths reported as of May 7, 2026.

The statement, signed by Director-General of the Ghana Health Service, Dr. Samuel Kaba Akoriyea, noted that the affected individuals largely comprised Filipino crew members, while passengers on board came from the United States, Europe, South America, Australia and parts of Asia.

The statement explained that the World Health Organization? and the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention? have assessed the global public health risk as low, but advised countries to intensify surveillance and emergency preparedness measures.

Hantavirus is a rodent-borne viral disease transmitted mainly through contact with infected rodents, particularly exposure to their urine, saliva, droppings or contaminated surfaces. Health experts say symptoms may include fever, headache, muscle pain, abdominal discomfort and vomiting, while severe infections can lead to breathing difficulties and potentially fatal respiratory complications.

The Ghana Health Service stressed that no case of Hantavirus has been recorded in Ghana.

However, the Service disclosed that precautionary public health interventions have already been instituted through its Port Health systems and other surveillance structures to prevent any possible importation of the disease into the country.

Among the measures announced are enhanced surveillance at all ports of entry, including airports and seaports, intensified monitoring of unusual respiratory illnesses in health facilities nationwide, strengthened laboratory preparedness and rapid response systems, as well as collaboration with international disease surveillance networks.

The health authorities also urged the public to adopt preventive measures aimed at reducing exposure to rodents and contaminated environments.

Citizens have been advised to keep homes and workplaces clean, properly store food, dispose of waste promptly, avoid direct contact with rodents and their droppings, and wear gloves and masks when cleaning rodent-infested areas.

The Ghana Health Service further encouraged regular handwashing with soap and clean water, while urging persons experiencing fever, breathing difficulties or flu-like symptoms after possible rodent exposure or recent international travel to seek immediate medical attention.

The Ministry of Health and the Ghana Health Service assured the public that Ghana’s disease surveillance systems remain active and responsive, while cautioning against misinformation and panic.

The statement was issued on the official WhatsApp communication platform of the Ghana Health Service.

 

 

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