By Samira Larbie, GNA
Accra, May 8, GNA – The Ministry of Health and the Ghana Health Service (GHS) have assured the public that enhanced surveillance and preparedness measures have been activated across the country following reports of Hantavirus infections aboard a cruise ship currently docked in Cape Verde.
A statement signed by Prof Samuel Kaba Akoriyea, the Director-General of GHS, said as of May 7, 2026, eight suspected cases of the viral disease had been recorded on the cruise ship, with five cases confirmed and three deaths reported.
It said the affected persons were largely Filipinos serving as crew members, while passengers onboard included nationals from the United States, Europe, South America, Australia and parts of Asia.
The Ministry said the World Health Organisation and the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention had conducted a risk assessment and concluded that the overall global public health risk remained low.
However, countries have been advised to strengthen surveillance and preparedness systems to prevent possible spread.
The statement emphasised that no case of Hantavirus has been recorded in Ghana.
It noted that the GHS, through its Port Health structures, and in collaboration with health partners, had instituted precautionary public health measures nationwide.
The measures include enhanced surveillance at all ports of entry; airports and seaports, increased monitoring and reporting of unusual respiratory illnesses to health facilities.
It has also intensified public education on rodent control and environmental sanitation, strengthened laboratory preparedness and rapid response systems.
The statement indicated that the GHS was collaborating with international disease surveillance networks and the WHO to ensure timely information sharing and coordinated response efforts.
Hantavirus is a viral disease primarily spread through contact with infected rodents, particularly through exposure to their urine, droppings, saliva or contaminated surfaces.
Health experts say symptoms may include fever, headache, muscle pain, abdominal discomfort, vomiting and, in severe cases, breathing difficulties.
The public has, therefore, been advised to keep homes, workplaces and surroundings clean to prevent rodent infestation, properly store food and dispose of waste promptly.
Members of the public must also avoid contact with rodents and their droppings, and wear gloves and masks when cleaning rodent-infested areas.
The statement again encouraged citizens to wash their hands regularly with soap and clean water and seek immediate medical attention if they experience fever, breathing difficulties or flu-like symptoms after possible exposure to rodents or recent international travel.
The Ministry of Health and the Ghana Health Service assured the public that Ghana’s disease surveillance system remained active and responsive.
It urged citizens to remain calm, avoid misinformation and adhere strictly to official public health guidance.
GNA
Edited by Agnes Boye-Doe
Reporter: Samira Larbie
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