National Ambulance Service, GHS Strengthen Ebola Response Preparedness at Accra International Airport
The National Ambulance Service (NAS) and the Ghana Health Service (GHS) have intensified preparations for a possible Ebola threat with an operational exercise at Terminal 3 of the Accra International Airport to improve surveillance and the safe evacuation of suspected cases.
The exercise focused on identifying strategic locations and evacuation routes for the prompt and safe transfer of suspected or confirmed Ebola patients from the terminal’s arrival and departure halls.
The team also observed passenger data collection by GHS surveillance personnel during the arrival of an Air Uganda flight, highlighting the importance of early detection and effective monitoring in preventing the spread of infectious diseases.
The delegation was led by Dr Dennis Laryea, Deputy Director of Surveillance at the GHS, and included Mr Nii Hammond Sarkwah Hammond, Deputy Director of ICT; Dr Alphonso of Port Health; staff of the Airport Clinic; Greater Accra Regional Administrator of NAS, DCAEMT Daniel Asare; and personnel from the Service’s Airport Station.
NAS participated in the exercise following a directive from its Chief Executive Officer, Dr (Med) George Kojo Owusu, underscoring the Service’s commitment to emergency medical preparedness, safe patient evacuation and inter-agency coordination.
The exercise was conducted at the direction of the Director-General of the GHS, Dr Samuel Kaba, as Ghana strengthens its preparedness at points of entry against potential public health threats.
The collaboration recognises that effective outbreak response goes beyond screening and surveillance. Clear evacuation procedures, timely communication and coordinated action by frontline personnel are essential to managing suspected cases and protecting travellers, airport workers and the wider population.
Grace Acheampong, ISD
