The government, through the Ministry of Health, has issued a public health advisory following reports of a hantavirus outbreak linked to the cruise ship MV Hondius, currently sailing in the Atlantic Ocean.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), the outbreak has so far recorded eight confirmed cases, including three deaths among passengers and crew, raising global concern over the spread of the rodent-borne disease.

Health Director General Dr Patrick Amoth, in a statement issued on Friday, May 8, 2026, reassured the public that there are currently no reported cases in Kenya and that the risk to the general population remains low.

The Ministry said it is closely monitoring the situation in collaboration with international health partners to ensure early detection and prevention of any possible importation of the disease.

“The Ministry of Health is aware of an outbreak of hantavirus infection linked to the cruise ship MV Hondius, currently traveling in the Atlantic Ocean. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), as of 7th May 2026, there have been 8 confirmed cases, including 3 deaths, among passengers and crew,” the statement reads in part.

What is hantavirus?

Hantavirus is a viral disease primarily transmitted to humans through contact with infected rodents such as rats and mice.

Infection can occur through inhaling contaminated dust, touching contaminated surfaces, or exposure to rodent droppings. In rare cases, certain strains, such as the Andes virus, can spread between humans through close contact.

Symptoms and severity

Health officials have warned that symptoms typically appear between one and eight weeks after exposure and may include fever, headache, muscle aches, fatigue, nausea, and vomiting.

In severe cases, the infection can progress to Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome (HPS), a life-threatening respiratory condition.

Government response

The Ministry of Health said it has activated precautionary measures, including enhanced surveillance and preparedness systems.

These include monitoring developments through WHO and international partners, strengthening screening at airports and seaports, alerting health facilities to watch for suspected symptoms among travellers, and ensuring rapid testing and emergency response readiness.

Public guidance

The Ministry has also urged members of the public to observe basic hygiene and environmental cleanliness to reduce exposure risks.

It advised Kenyans to keep their surroundings free of rodents, store food securely and dispose of waste properly, wash hands regularly with soap and water, and avoid contact with rodents or their droppings.

Travellers returning from affected areas have been advised to monitor their health for up to eight weeks and seek medical attention immediately if symptoms such as fever or breathing difficulties develop.

“Travellers returning from affected areas should: Monitor their health for up to 8 weeks. Report any symptoms to the nearest health facility promptly,” the ministry stated.

MoH also emphasised that the situation is being actively monitored and urged the public to rely only on official updates from the Ministry of Health and WHO, warning against the spread of misinformation.

The Ministry reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding public health and said it will issue further updates as the situation evolves.