The Department of Health (DOH) said stricter border screening measures are now in place at airports and seaports nationwide to prevent the possible entry of hantavirus into the Philippines.
In a video message, the DOH said it is closely coordinating with the World Health Organization (WHO), the Bureau of Quarantine (BOQ), and the Research Institute for Tropical Medicine (RITM) to monitor the hantavirus situation linked to the expedition vessel MV Hondius.
Hantavirus, a disease transmitted from rodents to humans, was reportedly detected aboard the MV Hondius while it was traveling from Ushuaia to Cape Verde. Common symptoms include fever, fatigue, and muscle pain.
Under the tightened protocols, travelers entering the country are required to complete a health declaration through the eGovPH app, indicating the countries they visited and whether they are experiencing symptoms.
Upon arrival, passengers will undergo observation by BOQ personnel and screening through infrared thermal scanners capable of detecting high fever.
The DOH said passengers coming from flagged countries or those exhibiting symptoms will immediately undergo assessment at BOQ offices, where they will be questioned about their travel history and possible exposure before undergoing physical examination.
Passengers found to be ill will be transferred to isolation facilities and designated DOH hospitals, including RITM, for monitoring and treatment.
The DOH also said the Philippines is prepared to conduct laboratory testing on the 38 Filipino crew members aboard the MV Hondius should they return to the country amid international monitoring over possible hantavirus exposure.
“Ang 38 Filipino crew mula sa nasabing cruise ship ay kukumpletuhin ang anim na linggong quarantine sa Netherlands,” the DOH said in a statement.
Despite the heightened monitoring, the DOH emphasized that no hantavirus cases have been recorded in the Philippines so far in 2026.
