Ebola declared as public health emergency

The Minister for Health, Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, has announced that the recent outbreak of Ebola Virus Disease (EVD) has been declared a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC) by the World Health Organisation due to the risk of cross-border transmission and the severity of the disease.

According to the Health Minister, although no case has been recorded in West Africa, including Ghana, citizens must remain calm but highly vigilant as government intensifies surveillance and preparedness measures nationwide.

He explained that Ebola is a severe and often fatal illness spread through direct contact with the blood, body fluids, secretions, or organs of infected persons, as well as contaminated surfaces and materials.

The Ministry of Health has therefore urged the public to strictly observe all preventive measures, especially during public activities and mass gatherings.

Citizens have been advised to carry personal hand sanitisers, practice proper hand hygiene at all times, and avoid unnecessary physical contact.

Event organisers have also been directed to provide adequate handwashing stations and sanitisers at all public events.

The Minister further encouraged Ghanaians to wash their hands regularly with soap under running water or use alcohol-based sanitisers, while homes, schools, workplaces, markets and points of entry are expected to maintain proper hygiene facilities.

Mr. Akandoh cautioned the public against spreading misinformation and urged citizens to rely only on official communication from government and health authorities.

He added that persons experiencing symptoms such as sudden fever, headache, muscle pain, vomiting, diarrhoea or unexplained bleeding should immediately report to the nearest health facility for early diagnosis and treatment.

According to the Minister, the Ministry of Health and the Ghana Health Service, together with international partners, have intensified screening, surveillance and emergency response systems to safeguard public health.

“The cooperation of every citizen is essential in preventing the spread of Ebola. Together, we can protect our families and communities,” the Minister stated.

Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith