The Ministry of Health has assured the public that Ghana remains on high alert following reported cases of Ebola Virus Disease (EVD) in Uganda and the Democratic Republic of Congo.
In a press release, the ministry said health authorities had been informed of recent suspected and confirmed Ebola cases in the two countries, according to updates from the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC).
“The Ministry of Health wishes to inform the public that recent cases of Ebola Virus Disease (EVD) have been reported in some African countries,” the statement said.
The ministry noted that although Ghana has not recorded any suspected or confirmed cases, precautionary measures have been activated nationwide to strengthen preparedness and response systems.
According to the statement, the ministry is working closely with international health partners to enhance surveillance and ensure a rapid response in the event of any suspected outbreak.
Current measures being implemented include increased screening at airports, seaports, and land borders, as well as intensified monitoring of travellers arriving from affected countries.
Health workers are also being trained and equipped to identify, isolate, and manage suspected cases safely.
The ministry further revealed that public health emergency coordination and rapid response systems have been activated across the country.
“Intensified public education, risk communication, and community awareness activities” are also ongoing, the statement added.
The Ministry of Health explained that Ebola is a severe viral illness spread through direct contact with the bodily fluids of infected persons or contaminated materials and surfaces.
Symptoms include fever, weakness, headache, vomiting, diarrhoea, and, in severe cases, bleeding.
The ministry urged the public to remain calm while observing preventive measures to reduce the risk of infection.
“Wash hands regularly with soap under running water or use alcohol-based hand sanitizers,” the statement advised.
The public was also cautioned against direct contact with bodily fluids of sick persons and advised to avoid handling dead bodies without appropriate protection.
In addition, the ministry warned against handling or consuming sick or dead wild animals and encouraged the public to ensure that all meat is properly handled and thoroughly cooked before consumption.
The ministry further appealed to Ghanaians to report any suspected symptoms immediately to the nearest health facility.
“Report suspected symptoms immediately to the nearest health facility,” the statement urged.
Read the full statement below:
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