The Minister for Health, Hon. Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, has assured the general public that the nation possesses robust preparedness and response mechanisms to detect and contain any potential outbreak of the Ebola virus disease.
Speaking following a comprehensive inspection of screening facilities and emergency protocols at Kotoka International Airport in Accra, the Minister confirmed that Ghana has not recorded a single case of the virus.
He urged citizens to remain calm and confident, noting that government surveillance networks have been significantly bolstered across key entry points to protect the population.
Hon. Akandoh explained that because no specific vaccine or targeted cure exists for the current Ebola strain, early detection, rapid contact tracing, and aggressive containment remain the cornerstone of the country’s defense strategy.
To enforce these measures, state-of-the-art thermal scanners have been installed at arrival points to screen incoming passengers for elevated body temperatures and other primary indicators of infection.
Additionally, the Ministry of Health is finalising the deployment of electronic health declaration forms for all inbound travellers.
Once fully operational, incoming passengers will be required to submit their health data prior to touching down, enabling port health officials to identify higher-risk individuals before entry.
The Minister noted that an official statement regarding the timeline for the electronic system will be issued shortly, after which airlines and aviation authorities will strictly enforce compliance among passengers.
Beyond maritime and air entry corridors, the government is expanding thermal screening capacity across major land borders to prevent potential cross-border transmission. Designated isolation units and specialized treatment hubs have also been readied in strategic regions to handle any suspected cases immediately.
Emphasising that screening protocols apply to every individual regardless of their social or political standing, Hon. Akandoh reiterated the government’s resolve to handle any potential health emergency swiftly, maintaining that the state remains vigilant and ready to safeguard public health.
By: Rainbowradioonline.com/Ghana