Ghana has recorded about 450 suspected yellow fever cases between June and September this year, prompting the Ministry of Health to intensify surveillance and prepare additional measures to prevent a potential outbreak.
Health Minister Kwabena Mintah Akandoh disclosed the figures during a health sector update engagement in Accra.
The Upper West Region accounts for 74 of the suspected cases, while three confirmed cases have been reported in the Upper East Region.
The figures have heightened concern among health authorities because World Health Organization guidelines state that two or more confirmed cases within a defined area may be sufficient to declare an outbreak, depending on the epidemiological context.
Mr Akandoh said there was currently no cause for alarm, but stressed that the situation was being monitored closely and that suspected infections were undergoing testing.
“So far, 450 suspected cases have been reported. The cases are being tested for confirmation. Some are even taken outside. We will brief the country properly, so the media should be circumspect with your reports,” he said.
A national response team has been deployed as part of the measures being taken by the authorities. Isolation centres have also been identified and demarcated so they can be used to manage suspected cases if required.
“In response, a national response team has been deployed, while isolation centres have been identified and demarcated to support the management of suspected cases should the need arise,” the minister said.
Reports have suggested that seven people may have died from yellow fever, but the Health Minister did not confirm those reported fatalities during the engagement.
He urged members of the public to remain vigilant and seek medical attention promptly if they develop symptoms associated with the disease.
Yellow fever is a serious viral disease that can be prevented through vaccination. It is transmitted mainly by the bite of infected mosquitoes, which are active during the day.
The virus is maintained through cycles involving mosquitoes and infected humans or primates. It is not spread directly from person to person through casual contact.
The Ministry of Health said it would continue to strengthen surveillance, monitor suspected cases and coordinate the national response in an effort to prevent further spread of the disease.
