Ghana strengthens surveillance at airport, borders over Ebola cases in Kenya and Nigeria
The Ministry of Health says Ghana is intensifying surveillance at airports and other points of entry following reports of Ebola cases in Kenya and Nigeria, amid concerns about the potential spread of the disease across borders.
In a public update, the Ministry said Ghana had not recorded any Ebola cases but was collaborating with the Ghana Health Service, relevant agencies and partners to prevent the disease from entering the country and ensure the early detection and effective management of suspected infections.
The heightened alert follows reports from Kenyan authorities of an imported case of Ebola caused by the Bundibugyo virus on October 6, 2026. By October 17, six additional cases had been recorded, including among healthcare workers, all linked to the initial infection.
On October 20, Nigerian authorities also confirmed an Ebola case in the Federal Capital Territory, raising further concerns about the disease’s potential spread within the region.
The Ministry identified direct flights between Ghana and Kenya, as well as rising passenger numbers, as factors that could increase the risk of the disease being imported. Frequent travel between Ghana and Nigeria has also underscored the need for increased vigilance.
Airport screening and surveillance intensified
The Ministry said the Ghana Health Service was strengthening screening and surveillance, particularly at Kotoka International Airport, as part of efforts to prepare for possible cases.
The initiative involves collaboration with the Ghana Airports Company Limited, the Ghana Civil Aviation Authority and other stakeholders to improve coordination and emergency preparedness.
Simulation exercises have also been carried out at Kotoka International Airport and the Ghana Infectious Disease Centre to evaluate the country’s readiness to respond to suspected Ebola cases.
Travellers arriving from high-risk areas will be monitored throughout their stay in Ghana in line with established public health protocols, the Ministry said.
Laboratory preparedness is also being enhanced through a review of standard operating procedures, while healthcare workers are receiving sensitisation to strengthen their ability to identify and manage suspected infections appropriately.
Public education and risk communication activities at the airport are expected to provide travellers with information on preventing Ebola and the steps to take if symptoms develop.
Public urged to recognise symptoms and seek early care
The Ministry said symptoms of Ebola virus disease typically appear between two and 21 days after exposure, with an average incubation period of eight to 10 days.
Early signs include high fever, severe headache, extreme fatigue, sore throat and chills. Some patients may later experience unexplained bleeding and confusion.
Ebola is transmitted through direct contact with the blood or other bodily fluids of an infected person, or through contact with contaminated materials. It does not spread through the air in the same way as airborne infections.
The Ministry is urging anyone who develops symptoms after visiting an affected area or coming into contact with a suspected or confirmed case to seek immediate medical attention and inform healthcare workers about their travel history.
Travellers from affected areas may be monitored for 21 days, while the public has been advised to maintain good hand hygiene and avoid contact with the bodily fluids of anyone suspected of having the disease.
The Ministry has also warned against spreading misinformation, encouraging the public to rely on official updates from health authorities.
Ministry assures public of preparedness
The Ministry of Health said it was working with relevant agencies and partners to protect public health and strengthen Ghana’s capacity to prepare for and respond to potential Ebola cases.
It urged Ghanaians to remain calm, follow official communication channels and cooperate with public health authorities as surveillance and preparedness efforts continue.
Although no Ebola case has been reported in Ghana, health authorities say vigilance, early detection, prompt isolation and effective contact tracing remain essential to preventing a possible outbreak.
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