Ghana’s Minister of Health, Hon. Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, has assured the public that the country is prepared to detect and respond to any potential Ebola case following an inspection of screening facilities and emergency response measures at Accra International Airport.
The Health Minister stated that Ghana had not recorded any Ebola case at the time of his announcement and urged citizens to remain calm as the government strengthens measures to prevent the possible spread of the disease.
According to Mr Akandoh, enhanced disease surveillance, early detection and effective emergency response systems are essential to protecting public health and preventing an Ebola outbreak in Ghana.
He explained that, given the limited treatment options for the Ebola strain of concern, rapid identification of suspected infections, contact tracing and timely containment would be critical if a case were detected.
As part of the preventive measures, thermal scanners have been installed at the airport to screen arriving passengers for symptoms that may indicate an infection.
The Minister also revealed that electronic health declaration forms were being finalised to allow travellers entering Ghana to submit relevant health information before arrival. The system is expected to help health authorities assess passengers and identify individuals who may require further medical examination.
He added that the Ministry of Health would issue an official announcement on the implementation of the electronic declaration system. Airlines and airport authorities would subsequently be expected to ensure compliance with the new requirements.
Mr Akandoh further confirmed that designated isolation and treatment facilities were available to support the management of suspected or confirmed cases should the need arise.
He stressed that all arriving passengers must comply with the established health screening procedures, regardless of their status, to ensure effective disease surveillance.
Beyond airport screening, the government is also expanding health surveillance measures at Ghana’s land borders as part of efforts to strengthen the country’s preparedness against Ebola and other infectious diseases.
The measures highlight the importance of border health security, disease prevention and coordinated emergency response in protecting Ghana’s population.
Source: newsthemegh.com