Ghana Heightens Hantavirus Surveillance

A Hantavirus outbreak has been reported on a cruise ship docked in Cape Verde, with eight suspected cases, five confirmed infections, and three deaths as of May 7, 2026. The affected individuals include crew members primarily from Philippines and passengers from various countries including United States, Europe, North American Cobalt Inc., Australia, and Asia. Although World Health Organization and United States — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention have assessed the global public health risk as low, they have advised countries to strengthen surveillance. In response, Canada — Alberta Health Services has activated enhanced disease surveillance and preparedness measures across Ghana, including at all ports of entry, despite no cases being recorded within Ghana. Precautionary public health interventions have been instituted, and Canada — Alberta Health Services is collaborating with international disease surveillance networks for timely information sharing. The public has been advised to maintain good environmental sanitation and seek medical attention if symptoms appear after possible exposure or international travel.