The Ghana Health Service (GHS) says it has enhanced surveillance in Ghana after an outbreak of Hantavirus on a cruise ship, which has now docked in Cape Verde.
In a statement the GHS assured that no case of Hantavirus has been recorded in Ghana, but enhanced surveillance measures have been instituted following the docking of the cruise ship in Cape Verde.
Eight suspected cases have been reported on the cruise ship, with five confirmed and three deaths.
The crew were largely from the Philippines, while passengers came from the US, Europe, South America, Australia, and parts of Asia.
Low global risk but vigilance advised
The World Health Organisation (WHO) and the US CDC, after a risk assessment, have indicated that the overall global public health risk remains low, but countries have been advised to strengthen surveillance and preparedness measures.
Hantavirus is a viral disease primarily spread through contact with infected rodents, especially through exposure to their urine, droppings, saliva, or contaminated surfaces. Symptoms may include fever, headache, muscle pain, abdominal discomfort, vomiting, and, in severe cases, breathing difficulties.
Public health measures being implemented
In a press release, it was explained that the Ministry of Health and GHS are using its structures including Port Health, together with health partners, to institute precautionary public health measures to prevent any possible spread into Ghana.
These include enhanced surveillance of all ports of entry, including airports and seaports; increased monitoring and reporting of unusual respiratory illnesses in health facilities nationwide; public health education on rodent control and environmental sanitation; strengthened laboratory preparedness and rapid response systems; and collaboration with the WHO and international disease surveillance networks for timely information sharing.
Measures
The public has been advised to keep homes, workplaces, and surroundings clean to prevent rodent infestation; properly store food and dispose of waste promptly; avoid contact with rodents and their droppings; wear gloves and masks when cleaning rodent-infested areas; wash hands regularly with soap and clean water; and seek immediate medical attention if experiencing fever, difficulty breathing, or flu-like symptoms after possible exposure to rodents or recent international travel.
Assurance from GHS
“The Ministry of Health and Ghana Health Service assure the public that Ghana’s disease surveillance systems remain active and responsive. Citizens are urged to remain calm, avoid misinformation and follow official public health guidance,” the statement read.
Source:
www.graphic.com.gh
