Health Ministry confirms no local hantavirus cases amid cruise ship outbreak

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The Ministry of Health has moved to calm public fears while stepping up surveillance measures following a deadly hantavirus outbreak linked to the cruise ship MV Hondius in the Atlantic Ocean.

‎According to the Ministry, eight cases, including three deaths, have so far been confirmed among passengers and crew aboard the vessel, prompting heightened global monitoring by the World Health Organisation.

‎In a public health advisory issued on Friday, Director General for Health Patrick Amoth assured Kenyans that no cases have been reported locally and that the risk to the public remains low.

‎“There are currently no reported cases in Kenya. The risk to the general public remains low. Health authorities are closely monitoring the situation and taking precautionary measures,” said Amoth.

‎The Ministry said it has activated precautionary systems at points of entry, including airports and seaports, as part of efforts to prevent possible importation of the disease.

‎Hantavirus is a viral disease mainly transmitted through contact with infected rodents such as rats and mice, particularly through inhalation of contaminated dust, touching contaminated surfaces, or handling rodent waste.

‎Health experts warn that symptoms may take between one and eight weeks to appear after exposure.

‎The symptoms include fever, headaches, muscle aches, fatigue, nausea and vomiting, while severe infections may lead to breathing difficulties and a potentially fatal condition known as Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome (HPS).

‎“Severe illness can develop into Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome, which can be life-threatening,” the advisory warned.

‎The Ministry said it is working closely with international health agencies, including WHO, to track developments surrounding the outbreak aboard the cruise ship.

‎Among the interventions already rolled out are enhanced screening of travellers, alerting hospitals and clinics to watch for symptoms among recent travellers, and preparing rapid response and testing systems.

‎“The Ministry of Health remains committed to safeguarding public health and will provide updates as needed,” Amoth said.

‎Kenyans have also been urged to observe preventive hygiene measures, including keeping homes and surroundings clean to discourage rodent infestation, safely storing food, disposing waste properly, and washing hands regularly with soap and water.

‎The Ministry further advised travellers returning from affected areas to monitor their health for up to eight weeks and immediately seek medical attention if they develop fever or breathing difficulties.

‎“Seek medical care immediately if you develop fever or breathing difficulties, especially after recent travel,” the statement added.

‎Authorities also cautioned members of the public against spreading misinformation online, urging citizens to rely only on official communication from the Ministry of Health and WHO.

‎The outbreak has once again highlighted growing concerns over emerging infectious diseases and the importance of international disease surveillance in an era of increased global travel.