Ghana tightens airport screening over Ebola risk
By the AFREEQUE newsroom, based on Kenyans
Ghana’s Ministry of Health has strengthened checks at airports to detect possible Ebola cases, amid risks linked to direct flights from Kenya and confirmation of a case in Nigeria. Ghana has also raised its surveillance level after Kenya reported nine cases linked to an imported infection, according to the ministry cited by Kenyans.
Ghana has strengthened screening of travellers at its airports over the risk of Ebola virus importation, particularly because of direct flights and the high number of passengers between Ghana and Kenya, according to Ghana’s Ministry of Health. In a statement issued on 21 October, the ministry stressed that Kenyan authorities had reported nine cases linked to an imported infection of the Bundibugyo strain by 20 October, including healthcare workers.
Ghana’s measures include increased checks at points of entry, simulation exercises at Accra International Airport and the Ghana Infectious Diseases Centre. Authorities are also monitoring travellers from affected areas, updating laboratory procedures and raising awareness among healthcare workers and passengers. Ghana has reported no cases of Ebola, the ministry said.
The government is working with the Ghana Health Service, airport authorities and other partners to improve the country’s preparedness. On 21 October, the ministry had already announced increased checks after cases were reported in Kenya and Nigeria (Ghana’s Ebola checks).
Summary produced with the help of artificial intelligence tools, under AFREEQUE’s editorial responsibility.
