Monday, 18 May

Health Ministry issues public alert over Ebola outbreak in Uganda and DR Congo

Health News
AFP via Getty Images (Pic): Nearly 2,300 people died in DR Congo's deadliest Ebola outbreak between 2018 and 2020

The Ministry of Health has issued a public alert following recent cases of Ebola Virus Disease (EVD) reported in Uganda and the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

In a press release dated May 18, 2026, the ministry stated that according to updates from the World Health Organization (WHO) and Africa CDC, confirmed and suspected Ebola cases have recently been recorded in the two countries.

The ministry, however, indicated that Ghana has not recorded any suspected or confirmed Ebola case.

According to the statement signed by Health Minister Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, the Ministry of Health, in collaboration with international health partners, has activated precautionary measures nationwide to strengthen the country’s preparedness and response systems.

The measures being implemented include enhanced surveillance and screening at airports, seaports and land borders, increased monitoring of travellers arriving from affected countries, and the training and equipping of health workers to identify, isolate and manage suspected cases.

The ministry also announced the activation of public health emergency coordination and rapid response systems, as well as intensified public education and community awareness activities.

The statement explained that Ebola Virus Disease is a severe viral illness spread through direct contact with the bodily fluids of infected persons or contaminated materials and surfaces.

It noted that symptoms may include fever, weakness, headache, vomiting, diarrhoea and, in severe cases, bleeding.

The Ministry of Health urged the public to remain calm and observe preventive measures, including regular handwashing, avoiding direct contact with bodily fluids of sick persons, avoiding the handling of dead bodies without protection, and ensuring meat is properly handled and thoroughly cooked before consumption.

The public was also advised to report suspected symptoms immediately to the nearest health facility.

The ministry further cautioned against spreading misinformation and encouraged the public to rely only on official updates from the Ministry of Health and the Ghana Health Service.

According to the statement, the Ministry of Health and the Ghana Health Service remain committed to protecting public health and will continue to monitor the situation closely.

Source: classfmonline.com