The Ministry of Health and the Ghana Health Service (GHS) have informed the public that cases of hantavirus infection have been reported on a cruise ship currently docked in Cape Verde.

In a press release signed by the Director-General of the Ministry, Dr Samuel Kaba Okoriyea, the authorities stated that, as of May 7, 2026, a total of eight suspected cases have been reported, including five confirmed cases and three deaths.

The release explained that crew members on the cruise ship are largely from the Philippines, while passengers include individuals from the United States, Europe, South America, Australia and parts of Asia.

It noted that, following a risk assessment, the World Health Organization (WHO) and the US CDC have indicated that the overall global public health risk remains low.

However, countries have been advised to strengthen surveillance and preparedness measures.

The Ministry and GHS stated that hantavirus is a viral disease primarily spread through contact with infected rodents, particularly through exposure to their urine, droppings, saliva or contaminated surfaces.

Symptoms may include fever, headache, muscle pain, abdominal discomfort, vomiting and, in severe cases, breathing difficulties.

The release further disclosed that no case of hantavirus has been recorded in Ghana to date.

Nonetheless, the Ghana Health Service, through its established structures including Port Health together with health partners, has instituted precautionary public health measures to prevent any possible spread into the country.

The Ministry stressed that the following measures are being implemented: the enhanced surveillance of all ports of entry, including airports and seaports; increased monitoring and reporting of unusual respiratory illnesses in health facilities nationwide.

Public health education on rodent control and environmental sanitation; strengthened laboratory preparedness and rapid response systems; and collaboration with the World Health Organization and international disease surveillance networks to enable timely information sharing.

"The Precautionary Measures for the Public include: Keep homes, workplaces and surroundings clean to prevent rodent infestation. Properly store food and dispose of waste promptly. Avoid contact with rodents and their droppings.

"Wear gloves and masks when cleaning rodent-infested areas. Wash hands regularly with soap and clean water. Seek immediate medical attention if experiencing fever, difficulty breathing or flu-like symptoms after possible exposure to rodents or recent international travel," it stated.

The Ministry of Health and the Ghana Health Service assured the public that Ghana’s disease surveillance systems remain active and responsive.

They further urged citizens to remain calm, avoid misinformation and follow official public health guidance.