Ghana's Health Ministry Boosts Ebola Surveillance Measures

Ghana’s Ministry of Health has strengthened surveillance and response measures against Ebola after cases were reported in Kenya and Nigeria. The ministry, led by Minister Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, stated that Kenya reported an imported case of Ebola from the Democratic Republic of the Congo on October 6, 2026, with six additional cases linked to it as of October 17, 2026.

Nigeria confirmed a case in the Federal Capital Territory on October 20, 2026. Although Ghana has not reported any Ebola cases, the ministry is enhancing national preparedness to prevent the virus's importation.

Measures include engaging stakeholders, enhancing surveillance at points of entry, conducting simulation exercises, and improving laboratory preparedness. The ministry advised individuals who develop symptoms after traveling from affected areas to seek medical attention and monitor their health for 21 days.

Symptoms of Ebola can manifest between two and 21 days after exposure, with an average incubation period of eight to 10 days.