Ministry of Health issues public alert amidst Ebola outbreak in Uganda, DR Congo

The Ministry of Health issued a public alert following reported cases of Ebola Virus Disease (EVD) in Uganda and the Democratic Republic of Congo. The ministry assured the public that Ghana remains on high alert. 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 stated, "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 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. 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. 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 ministry urged the public to remain calm while observing preventive measures to reduce the risk of infection, such as washing hands regularly with soap under running water or using alcohol-based hand sanitizers. The public was also cautioned against direct contact with bodily fluids of sick persons and advised to avoid handling dead bodies without appropriate protection. 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 appealed to Ghanaians to report any suspected symptoms immediately to the nearest health facility and urged, "Report suspected symptoms immediately to the nearest health facility."