Govt tightens airport and seaport screening over hantavirus 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.

Director General for Health Dr Patrick Amoth confirmed that the government is closely monitoring the situation in collaboration with international health partners. The move comes after the World Health Organization reported eight confirmed cases, including three deaths, among passengers and crew as of May 7, 2026.

As part of the precautionary measures, the Ministry has intensified surveillance and screening at all international airports and seaports. Health facilities across the country have been placed on high alert to identify and manage any suspected cases, particularly among travelers returning from affected regions.

The Ministry has also activated its rapid response and testing systems to ensure any potential introduction of the virus is caught early. While the vessel is currently in the Atlantic, the global nature of maritime and air travel has necessitated a higher state of vigilance at Kenya's borders.

Hantavirus is a severe respiratory disease primarily spread through contact with infected rodents or their droppings. Symptoms often begin with fever, fatigue, and muscle aches, but can progress rapidly to severe breathing difficulties.

The incubation period for the virus is relatively long, and the Ministry has advised travelers returning from affected areas to monitor their health for up to eight weeks. Anyone experiencing fever or shortness of breath during this window is urged to seek medical attention immediately.

Public health officials emphasized that there is currently no evidence of transmission within African countries. The outbreak appears confined to the vessel, which has 147 individuals on board and has been the subject of a coordinated international response involving several European and African nations.

President Ruto’s administration has consistently prioritized border health security as a component of national infrastructure resilience. By strengthening the port health desk, the Ministry aims to prevent the disruption of trade and travel while safeguarding the population.

Dr Patrick Amoth cautioned the public against relying on unverified reports and urged citizens to follow official updates from the Ministry and the World Health Organization. The Ministry remains committed to providing regular briefings as the international situation evolves.

Standard hygiene practices remain the most effective defense against rodent-borne illnesses. Kenyans are encouraged to maintain clean environments, secure food storage, and practice regular hand hygiene to reduce any local risk of infection.

Medical facilities have been supplied with guidelines on standard precautions and aerosol-generating procedures. These measures are designed to protect healthcare personnel while ensuring that any suspected case receives prompt isolation and clinical management.

The government continues to track the movement of the MV Hondius through international maritime channels. Though the ship is far from Kenyan waters, the Ministry of Health maintains that early preparation is essential for maintaining the country's status as a safe hub for regional travel.