Ghana Steps Up Ebola Surveillance After Cases Reported in Kenya, Nigeria
Ghana has intensified Ebola surveillance and screening at its points of entry, particularly at the Accra International Airport, following reports of cases in Kenya and Nigeria.
The Ministry of Health said no case had been reported in Ghana. Still, it was strengthening measures to prevent importation and ensure early detection, isolation, and management of any suspected case.
The development follows an outbreak of Ebola in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), with cases subsequently reported in Kenya and Nigeria.
In a statement signed by the sector minister, Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, the ministry assured the public that it was working with relevant agencies and partners to protect public health.
The Ministry said direct flights and frequent travel between Ghana and the two countries had heightened the need for vigilance.
Working with the Ghana Health Service, the Ghana Airports Company Limited, the Ghana Civil Aviation Authority and other partners, the Ministry is strengthening screening, coordination and response capacity.
Simulation exercises have been conducted at the Accra International Airport and the Ghana Infectious Disease Centre, while laboratory preparedness, standard operating procedures, and healthcare workers’ readiness to manage suspected cases.
Travellers arriving from affected areas will be monitored for 21 days, while public education at the airport is intensified.
The Ministry urged the public to remain vigilant and seek prompt medical attention if symptoms develop after travel to an affected area or contact with a suspected or confirmed case.
The Ministry advised the public to practice good hand hygiene, avoid contact with people experiencing unexplained fever, vomiting, diarrhoea or bleeding, and refrain from sharing unverified information.
It urged Ghanaians to remain calm, follow official health updates, and cooperate with public health authorities.
On October 6, 2026, Kenya reported an imported case of Ebola caused by the Bundibugyo virus from the DRC. By October 17, six additional cases, including infections among healthcare workers, were reported. Nigeria confirmed a case in the Federal Capital Territory on October 20.
Ebola symptoms usually appear between two and 21 days after exposure and include high fever, severe headache, extreme fatigue, sore throat, and chills. Later symptoms may include unexplained bleeding and confusion.
The disease spreads through direct contact with the blood or other body fluids of an infected person, or contaminated materials. It is not airborne.
Grace Acheampong, ISD
