Ghana has stepped up measures to guard against a possible Ebola outbreak, strengthening health surveillance and emergency response systems following reports of cases in parts of Africa.
The Ghana Health Service (GHS), working with the Ministry of Health and other agencies, is testing the country’s readiness to detect and manage suspected infections.
The preparedness measures include simulation exercises, disease surveillance, laboratory readiness and coordination among institutions responsible for public health emergencies.
The exercises are designed to identify gaps and help health workers respond quickly if a suspected case is detected.
Health authorities are also focusing on travellers arriving from affected areas, with monitoring and screening measures intended to identify potential infections early.
Cooperation with neighbouring countries is expected to support information sharing and preparedness against cross-border health threats.
Ebola is a serious viral disease that can spread through direct contact with the blood or other body fluids of an infected person, as well as contaminated materials.
Symptoms may include fever, weakness, headache, muscle pain, vomiting and diarrhoea.
The GHS has urged the public to practise proper hand hygiene, avoid contact with suspected cases and seek immediate medical attention if symptoms develop following possible exposure.
Healthcare workers have also been encouraged to follow infection prevention and control procedures when handling suspected cases.
The preparedness drive comes amid concerns about the movement of infectious diseases across borders. Authorities are urging the public to remain calm, avoid spreading unverified information, and follow official health advisories.
The measures are intended to strengthen Ghana’s ability to detect, contain and respond to a potential Ebola threat before it develops into a wider public health emergency.
