No Ebola case recorded in Ghana — Health Minister reassures

Health Minister Kwabena Mintah Akandoh has assured the public that the government is implementing all necessary measures to safeguard Ghana against Ebola following the World Health Organization’s declaration of the outbreak as a Public Health Emergency of International Concern.

Speaking to the nation in Accra on Thursday, May 21, the Minister stated that Ghana and the rest of West Africa have not recorded any Ebola cases despite the escalating outbreak in parts of Central and East Africa.

“Dear countrymen and women, the Ministry of Health over the past one week has issued two publications on Ebola. Last week, WHO declared Ebola as a public health emergency of international concern,” he said.

Mr. Akandoh explained that Ebola is a highly infectious viral disease transmitted through direct contact with infected blood, body fluids, secretions, or contaminated materials.

He advised the public to seek immediate medical attention if they experience symptoms such as sudden fever, headaches, muscle pain, vomiting, diarrhoea, or unexplained bleeding.

Despite global concerns, the Minister emphasised that Ghana’s current risk level remains low.

“It is important to note that no cases have been recorded in West Africa, including our dear country, Ghana,” he noted.

His remarks come amid growing international concern after the WHO raised alerts over outbreaks in the Democratic Republic of Congo and Uganda, warning about the possibility of further spread across the region.

In response, the Ministry of Health and the Ghana Health Service have intensified surveillance, screening, and preparedness efforts at various entry points nationwide in collaboration with international health partners.

Mr. Akandoh also encouraged citizens to strictly observe preventive health measures to minimise any potential risk of infection.

“One, practice good hand hygiene. What this means is that we should wash our hands frequently with soap and running water or use hand sanitizers,” he advised.

He further appealed to organisers of public events and large gatherings to provide handwashing facilities and sanitisers for attendees.

“During mass gatherings, please also practice good hand hygiene and event organizers should provide hand washing stations and hand sanitizers,” he added.

The Minister stressed that public cooperation is essential in keeping the country safe and urged Ghanaians to remain alert while avoiding panic.

“Dear countrymen and women, it is important to stress that presently the risk is low in Ghana. I would like to use this opportunity to assure everybody that the government is taking all the necessary measures to protect us all,” he stated.