Hantavirus: Gov’t tightens airport, seaport screening but says no cases reported in Kenya

The Ministry of Health has moved to calm public fears following reports of a hantavirus outbreak aboard the cruise ship MV Hondius in the Atlantic Ocean, assuring Kenyans that no cases have been reported in the country and that the risk to the public remains low.

In a statement issued on Friday, Health Director General Dr. Patrick Amoth said the government was closely monitoring the situation after the World Health Organization (WHO) confirmed eight cases linked to the vessel, including three deaths among passengers and crew.

Dr. Amoth noted that the Ministry of Health had already activated precautionary public health measures, including enhanced screening at airports and seaports, alerting hospitals to watch for symptoms among travellers, and preparing rapid response and testing systems in the event of a suspected case.

“Hantavirus is mainly spread through contact with infected rodents such as rats and mice, particularly through breathing in contaminated dust, touching contaminated surfaces, or handling rodents and their waste,” Dr. Amoth said in the statement.

He further explained that, although rare, a specific strain known as the Andes strain can spread from person to person through close contact.

The Health DG noted that symptoms of the disease may appear between one and eight weeks after exposure and include fever, headaches, muscle aches, fatigue, nausea, vomiting, and in severe cases, breathing difficulties.

“Severe illness can develop into Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome (HPS), which can be life-threatening,” warned Dr. Amoth.

Kenyans have been advised to maintain clean surroundings, safely store food, dispose of waste properly, wash hands regularly, and avoid contact with rodents or their droppings to reduce the risk of infection.

The ministry also urged travellers returning from affected areas to monitor their health for up to eight weeks and seek immediate medical attention if they develop symptoms such as fever or breathing difficulties.