The Ministry of Health has assured the public that no case of Ebola Virus Disease (EVD) has been recorded in Ghana or anywhere in West Africa, despite growing concerns over a recent outbreak affecting parts of Central and East Africa.
According to the Ministry, the current Ebola outbreak is limited to countries such as the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Uganda, following the World Health Organisation’s declaration of the situation as a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC).
In a public statement, the Ministry explained that the declaration was made because of the “potential risk of cross-border transmission and the serious nature of the disease.”
The Ministry emphasised that although Ghana remains Ebola-free, citizens must remain alert and strictly observe preventive measures to protect themselves and their communities.
“Although there have been no reported cases in West Africa, including Ghana, the public is advised to remain calm but vigilant,” the statement said.
Health authorities described Ebola as a severe and often fatal disease caused by the Ebola virus, which spreads through direct contact with the blood, body fluids, secretions, or organs of infected persons, as well as contaminated surfaces and materials.
As part of precautionary measures, the Ministry advised the public to maintain proper hand hygiene at all times by washing hands frequently with soap under running water or using alcohol-based hand sanitisers.
The Ministry also urged individuals attending public events and mass gatherings to carry their own hand sanitisers, while event organisers have been encouraged to provide handwashing facilities and sanitisers at venues.
“Event organisers should provide sanitisers and handwashing stations at all events,” the Ministry stressed.
Ghanaians have also been cautioned against spreading false information or rumours capable of causing fear and panic, with the Ministry encouraging the public to rely only on official government and health authority communications.
Additionally, the Ministry advised anyone experiencing symptoms such as sudden fever, headache, muscle pain, vomiting, diarrhoea, or unexplained bleeding to seek immediate medical attention at the nearest health facility.
“Early reporting and treatment significantly improve outcomes and reduce spread,” the statement added.
The Ministry of Health and the Ghana Health Service say they have intensified surveillance, screening, preparedness, and response measures across the country in collaboration with both local and international partners.
Authorities say the cooperation of citizens remains essential in preventing any possible spread of the disease and protecting public health.
