The Ministry of Health has issued a public alert following reports of Ebola Virus Disease (EVD) cases in Uganda and the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), urging heightened vigilance and strengthened surveillance measures across the country.
In a press release dated May 18, 2026, the Ministry indicated that the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) have confirmed suspected and recorded Ebola cases in the two countries.
However, the Ministry assured the public that Ghana has not recorded any suspected or confirmed Ebola case at this time.
According to the statement, government health authorities, in collaboration with international partners, have activated precautionary measures nationwide to strengthen preparedness and response systems.
These measures include enhanced screening at airports, seaports, and land borders, increased monitoring of travellers arriving from affected countries, and intensified training of health workers to identify and manage suspected cases safely.
The Ministry also announced the activation of public health emergency coordination systems, as well as intensified public education and risk communication campaigns to improve community awareness.
Ebola is described as a severe viral illness transmitted through direct contact with infected bodily fluids or contaminated materials. Symptoms include fever, weakness, headache, vomiting, diarrhoea, and in severe cases, bleeding.
The Ministry has urged the public to observe strict hygiene practices, including regular handwashing with soap, avoiding contact with bodily fluids of sick persons, and ensuring proper handling and thorough cooking of food, particularly meat products.
The public has also been advised to avoid handling sick or dead wild animals and to report any suspected symptoms immediately to the nearest health facility.
Authorities cautioned against the spread of misinformation and encouraged citizens to rely solely on official updates from the Ministry of Health and the Ghana Health Service.
The Ministry reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding public health and stated that it will continue to closely monitor the situation in coordination with international health partners.
