The Ghana Health Service (GHS) has assured the public that no case of Hantavirus has been recorded in the country despite reports of infections aboard a cruise ship currently docked in Cape Verde.
In a press release issued on May 8, the Ministry of Health and the GHS disclosed that eight suspected cases had been identified on the vessel, with five confirmed infections and three deaths recorded so far.
According to the statement, the cruise ship had a largely Filipino crew and passengers from the United States, Europe, South America, Australia and parts of Asia.
The health authorities noted that assessments by the World Health Organization (WHO) and the United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) indicate that the overall global public health risk remains low, although countries have been advised to heighten surveillance and preparedness.
“The Ministry of Health and Ghana Health Service wish to inform the public that cases of Hantavirus infection have been reported on a cruise ship which is currently docked in Cape Verde,” the statement said.
The GHS explained that Hantavirus is primarily spread through contact with infected rodents or contaminated surfaces exposed to rodent urine, saliva or droppings.
“Symptoms may include fever, headache, muscle pain, abdominal discomfort, vomiting and, in severe cases, breathing difficulties,” the statement added.
To prevent any possible importation of the disease into Ghana, authorities say enhanced public health measures have already been activated through the Port Health system and other national health structures.
The interventions include intensified surveillance at airports and seaports, increased monitoring of unusual respiratory illnesses in health facilities, stronger laboratory preparedness and rapid response systems, as well as collaboration with international disease surveillance networks.
The GHS further urged the public to adopt preventive measures against rodent infestation and maintain good sanitation practices.
“Keep homes, workplaces and surroundings clean to prevent rodent infestation,” the release advised, adding that citizens should “avoid contact with rodents and their droppings” and “seek immediate medical attention if experiencing fever, difficulty breathing or flu-like symptoms after possible exposure to rodents or recent international travel.”
The Ministry of Health and the Ghana Health Service emphasized that Ghana’s disease surveillance systems remain fully operational and responsive.
“Citizens are urged to remain calm, avoid misinformation and follow official public health guidance,” the statement concluded.
