The Ministry of Health has intensified surveillance and screening measures, particularly at the country’s entry points, following reports of Ebola cas
The Ministry of Health has intensified surveillance and screening measures, particularly at the country’s entry points, following reports of Ebola cases in Kenya and Nigeria, in addition to an ongoing outbreak in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC).
In a press release issued by Health Minister Kwabena Mintah Akandoh on Wednesday, October 21, 2026, the Ministry said Ghana had not recorded any Ebola case but was strengthening its preparedness to prevent the virus from entering the country.
The measures are aimed at ensuring early detection, prompt isolation, and effective management of any suspected case.
According to the Ministry, Kenya reported an imported case of Ebola caused by the Bundibugyo virus from the DRC on October 6, 2026. By October 17, six additional cases had been reported, all linked to the initial case, including infections among healthcare workers.
Nigeria subsequently reported a confirmed Ebola case in the Federal Capital Territory on October 20, raising further concerns for Ghana because of frequent travel between the two countries.
The Ministry identified the situation in Kenya as a significant risk due to direct flights between the two countries and relatively higher passenger volumes than those travelling from the DRC.
It said the reports from Kenya and Nigeria had made it necessary to reinforce existing surveillance arrangements, particularly at the airport.
The Ministry of Health, working through the Ghana Health Service and other relevant agencies and partners, has outlined several measures to strengthen the country’s capacity to respond to a potential Ebola case.
These include enhanced screening at points of entry, particularly airports, and engagements with the Ghana Airports Company Limited, the Ghana Civil Aviation Authority, and other stakeholders to improve coordination.
It added that simulation exercises have also been conducted at the Accra International Airport and the Ghana Infectious Disease Centre to assess the country’s readiness to respond to suspected cases.
The Ministry said travellers arriving from high-risk areas would be monitored throughout their stay in Ghana in line with public health protocols.
It has also urged the public to remain vigilant and seek prompt medical attention if they develop symptoms consistent with Ebola after travelling to an affected area or coming into contact with a suspected or confirmed case.
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