The Ministry of Health through the Director General Doctor Patrick Amoth has issued a public health advisory following reports of a hantavirus outbreak linked to the cruise ship MV Hondius, currently traveling in the Atlantic Ocean.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), as of 7 May 2026, eight confirmed cases have been reported among passengers and crew, including three deaths.
Despite the outbreak, Amoth has assured Kenyans that there are currently no reported cases in the country and that the risk to the general public remains low.
Health authorities say they are closely monitoring the situation while taking precautionary measures to prevent any potential spread.
Understanding the Virus
Hantavirus is a disease mainly spread through contact with infected rodents, particularly rats and mice. Infection can occur through breathing in contaminated dust, touching contaminated surfaces, or handling rodents and their waste.
Doctor Amoth noted that in rare cases, a specific strain known as the Andes strain may spread between people through close contact.
Symptoms may appear between one and eight weeks after exposure. Common signs include fever, headache, muscle aches, fatigue, nausea, and vomiting. Severe illness can develop into Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome (HPS), a potentially life-threatening condition that causes breathing difficulties.
Government Response Intensifies
The Ministry of Health says it has activated precautionary measures to strengthen public safety.
Among the actions being undertaken are enhanced monitoring through WHO and international health partners, strengthened screening at airports and seaports, and alerts to health facilities to remain vigilant for symptoms among travelers.
The Director General also stated that rapid response and testing systems have been prepared in the event of suspected cases.
Public Urged to Take Precautions
Kenyans have been advised to maintain proper hygiene and avoid contact with rodents and their droppings.
The Ministry recommends keeping surroundings clean and free of rodents, storing food safely, disposing of waste properly, and washing hands regularly with soap and water.
Travellers returning from affected areas have been urged to monitor their health for up to eight weeks and report any symptoms to the nearest health facility immediately.
The advisory particularly emphasizes seeking urgent medical care in cases involving fever or breathing difficulties after recent travel.
Doctor Patrick Amoth also cautioned the public against spreading unverified information online and encouraged reliance on official updates from the Ministry of Health and WHO.
Doctor Amoth said the Ministry remains committed to safeguarding public health and will continue providing updates as the situation develops.
