“Health workers deserve recognition for their courage in Hepatitis care – GHS Boss

Director-General of the Ghana Health Service (GHS), Prof. Samuel Kaba Akoriyea, has paid glowing tribute to healthcare professionals across the country for their unwavering courage and commitment in the fight against viral hepatitis, despite the occupational risks they face daily.

Speaking at the World Hepatitis Day 2026 commemoration and the inauguration of the National Viral Hepatitis Technical Working Group in Accra, Prof. Akoriyea dedicated the occasion to the thousands of frontline health workers involved in hepatitis prevention, diagnosis, treatment and patient care.

He acknowledged the fear many healthcare professionals experience when managing patients living with hepatitis B, particularly those working in operating theatres, labour wards and laboratories where exposure to blood and body fluids is a constant risk.

"Today, I want to openly look directly into the cameras and dedicate this day to all the health staff in our country who have been involved in hepatitis management," Prof. Akoriyea said.

Drawing from his own clinical experience, the Director-General admitted that healthcare workers often carry genuine concerns when operating on patients known to be hepatitis B positive.

"I used to be afraid too. Once you know a patient is hepatitis B positive and you take that patient into theatre, you become extra cautious, even when removing your gloves after the procedure," he stated.

Prof. Akoriyea praised the dedication of surgeons, obstetricians, neurosurgeons, laboratory scientists, nurses, midwives and all other health professionals who continue to risk their own safety while saving lives.

"I know people put their lives on the line every day—delivering babies, performing surgeries, extracting blood samples and caring for patients. Their bravery and commitment deserve our deepest appreciation," he said.

He further commended everyone who has contributed to Ghana's hepatitis response over the years, describing their efforts as instrumental in the country's progress toward eliminating viral hepatitis as a public health threat.

Prof. Akoriyea called on Ghanaians to join the Ghana Health Service in recognising and celebrating the sacrifices of frontline health workers, whose professionalism and resilience continue to strengthen the nation's healthcare system.

Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith