Ghana strengthens Ebola surveillance amid outbreaks in DR Congo, Kenya and Nigeria
Story by: Regina Bless
The Ministry of Health has announced enhanced surveillance and preparedness measures to protect Ghana against the potential spread of Ebola following reported outbreaks in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), Kenya and Nigeria.
In a press release, the Ministry said it was working with the Ghana Health Service and other relevant agencies and partners to strengthen the country’s capacity to prevent, detect and respond promptly to any suspected Ebola case.
According to the statement, Kenyan authorities reported an imported case of Ebola caused by the Bundibugyo virus from the DRC on October 6, 2026. By October 17, six additional cases had been reported, including cases among healthcare workers. Nigerian authorities also confirmed a case in the Federal Capital Territory on October 20.
Although Ghana has not reported any Ebola cases, the Ministry noted that the developments in Kenya and Nigeria pose a potential risk due to frequent travel between the countries and Ghana, as well as direct flights and high passenger volumes.
To strengthen national preparedness, the Ministry, through the Ghana Health Service, has intensified collaboration with key stakeholders, including the Ghana Airports Company Limited and the Ghana Civil Aviation Authority. Measures also include enhanced screening at points of entry, simulation exercises at the Accra International Airport and the Ghana Infectious Disease Centre, and improved laboratory preparedness.
Other interventions include monitoring travellers arriving from high-risk areas for 21 days, sensitising healthcare workers on Ebola prevention and case management, and providing public education and risk communication at the airport.
The Ministry has also urged the public to remain vigilant and seek prompt medical attention if symptoms develop after travel to an affected area or contact with a suspected or confirmed case.
Symptoms of Ebola typically appear between two and 21 days after exposure and may include high fever, severe headache, extreme fatigue, sore throat and chills. In some cases, unexplained bleeding and confusion may occur.
The Ministry clarified that Ebola spreads through direct contact with the blood or body fluids of an infected person or contaminated materials, rather than through the air.
It advised travellers from affected areas to cooperate with health monitoring measures, encouraged the public to practise good hand hygiene and cautioned against spreading unverified information.
The Minister for Health, Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, reassured the public that the government, working with relevant agencies and partners, was implementing the necessary measures to safeguard public health.
He urged Ghanaians to remain calm, follow official updates and cooperate with public health authorities as the country strengthens its preparedness and response systems.