Ghana has activated its national Ebola preparedness and response plan. This action follows recent outbreaks of the disease in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and Uganda. The country is taking steps to prevent the virus from entering its borders.
Dr. Franklin Asiedu-Bekoe, Director of Public Health at the Ghana Health Service (GHS), confirmed the heightened readiness. Ghana has boosted its surveillance systems. This includes enhanced laboratory testing and better ways to manage potential cases. The aim is to quickly detect and stop any imported Ebola occurrence. "We already had a preparedness plan from previous outbreaks and have updated it to reflect the current situation," Dr. Asiedu-Bekoe stated. New guidelines for identifying suspected Ebola cases have been sent to all health facilities nationwide. These updates will help staff recognise, report, and manage potential cases effectively.
The World Health Organisation (WHO) reports that the DRC has seen many Ebola cases. As of June 3, 2026, there were 344 confirmed cases and 60 deaths in its affected provinces. Uganda reported 15 confirmed cases and one death. The number of suspected cases has fallen as authorities clear a backlog of investigations. This situation highlights the risk of transmission. Ghana’s economic activity relies heavily on its people’s health. A widespread disease outbreak could disrupt trade and daily life.
Ghana possesses three key laboratories capable of confirming Ebola infections. These are the National Public Health and Reference Laboratory in Accra, the Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research, and the Kumasi Centre for Collaborative Research (KCCR). "Any clinician who suspects a case can send samples to any of these laboratories for confirmation," Dr. Asiedu-Bekoe added. Enhanced screening is now in place at all Ghana entry points. This includes Accra International Airport. Travelers from high-risk countries will undergo extra health checks. These checks involve temperature scans and general health assessments. Airport and border officials are also trained on infection prevention. This includes improved sanitation and hand hygiene measures.
Treatment centers across Ghana are also ready. Facilities like the Ghana Infectious Disease Centre (GIDC) and Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital can manage suspected and confirmed cases. If a suspected case is found at an entry point, it will be immediately isolated. The patient will then be safely moved to a treatment facility. Public education campaigns have increased. Risk communication efforts aim to inform citizens about the virus and prevention methods. Dr. Asiedu-Bekoe stressed that Ghana has not recorded any Ebola cases. However, continued vigilance is crucial. International travel increases the risk of cross-border spread. The WHO has voiced concerns about broad travel bans. Such bans can disrupt essential supply chains.