NAIROBI, Kenya May 9 – Kenya has heightened surveillance and preparedness measures following a reported outbreak of the rare Andes strain of Hantavirus linked to a cruise ship in the Atlantic Ocean.
Health authorities say no case has been confirmed locally, but vigilance has been stepped up at airports and seaports.
Public Health Principal Secretary Mary Muthoni has emphasized the need for long-term prevention rather than crisis response.
The PS says Kenya is strengthening surveillance systems to detect zoonotic diseases early, especially threats linked to rodents and climate change.
She noted that Community Health Promoters will play a key role in grassroots prevention and public awareness.
According to the World Health Organization, eight cases, including three deaths, have so far been reported aboard the Dutch-flagged cruise ship MV Hondius.
Preliminary findings point to the Andes strain of Hantavirus, a rare variant capable of limited human-to-human transmission.
The Ministry of Health says digital surveillance systems and laboratory networks have been placed on high alert, while counties have been directed to prepare isolation centres, enhance infection prevention measures, and intensify public sensitization campaigns
