Accra: The Ghana Health Service (GHS) has called on the public to engage in regular handwashing and to seek early medical attention when feeling unwell, as part of measures to avert a potential Ebola outbreak in Ghana. This comes amidst heightened preparedness efforts following recent Ebola outbreaks in the Democratic Republic of Congo and Uganda.
According to Ghana News Agency, Dr. Franklin Asiedu-Bekoe, Director of Public Health at the GHS, emphasized the importance of public vigilance and adherence to preventive measures, despite Ghana not having recorded any Ebola cases. He advised against assuming all fevers are malaria-related and encouraged early medical assessment for symptoms such as fever, headache, and body pains.
Dr. Asiedu-Bekoe highlighted the significance of early reporting for better treatment outcomes, noting the absence of an approved vaccine for the current Ebola strain. He stressed that Ebola treatment is primarily supportive, and early intervention improves survival rates.
The GHS has also underscored the need for hand hygiene, urging institutions and event organizers to reinstate handwashing facilities introduced during the COVID-19 pandemic. Dr. Asiedu-Bekoe recommended regular handwashing with soap and water or using alcohol-based sanitizers in settings lacking handwashing facilities.
Ebola is transmitted through contact with infected individuals' blood and body fluids, making personal hygiene and avoiding such contact essential preventive measures. Symptoms often mimic common illnesses like malaria, with an incubation period of two to 21 days.
Dr. Asiedu-Bekoe announced ongoing orientation and training for health workers to enhance their capacity to identify and manage suspected Ebola cases. The GHS is collaborating with development partners to secure resources, including PPE and sanitizers, to bolster the country's response capabilities.
Preparedness efforts extend to border communities and health facilities, with frontline workers equipped to handle potential cases. The GHS director called for media support to promote public education and dispel misinformation about Ebola.
The Bundibugyo ebolavirus, a newly identified Ebola virus species, is believed to originate from animals, with fruit bats as possible natural reservoirs. While not airborne, Ebola becomes contagious upon symptom development. The current outbreak's fatality rate is estimated at 30 to 50 percent, underscoring the critical need for early detection and supportive care.