INCREASING SEASONAL INFLUENZA CASES REPORTED IN GHANA – MINISTRY OF HEALTH CAUTIONS PUBLIC

The Ministry of Health, through the Ghana Health Service (GHS), has announced a rise in seasonal influenza cases across parts of the country, urging the public to adhere strictly to preventive health measures.

According to the GHS, the confirmed cases involve Influenza A strains H3N2 and H1N1, both of which are common seasonal flu viruses. The surge has been notably recorded in the Greater Accra, Central, Bono, and Eastern Regions, coinciding with Ghana’s annual flu season, which typically peaks during the cooler months.

The Service noted that seasonal influenza, commonly referred to as the flu, presents with symptoms such as sudden onset of fever, cough, sore throat, runny nose, body aches, headache, and fatigue. Transmission primarily occurs through respiratory droplets from infected individuals when coughing, sneezing, or talking, as well as by touching contaminated surfaces.

The GHS further identified crowded environments—including schools, dormitories, markets, and transport hubs—as high-risk areas for rapid spread.

Groups at Higher Risk

The Ministry emphasized that certain groups are particularly vulnerable to severe illness from influenza. These include:

• Children and adolescents, especially with schools currently in session
• The elderly
• Pregnant women
• Individuals with chronic health conditions such as asthma, diabetes, and heart disease

Preventive Measures and Public Guidance

The Ghana Health Service is urging the public to:

• Seek early medical care upon developing flu-like symptoms
• Stay home when unwell to prevent infecting others
• Maintain good personal hygiene, including frequent handwashing with soap and running water
• Cover coughs and sneezes and disinfect frequently touched surfaces
• Avoid crowded areas and close contact with infected persons
• Wear a face mask in public or crowded settings

National Response Measures

In response to the upsurge, the Ghana Health Service has intensified efforts across the health system, including:

• Enhanced surveillance and rapid diagnostic testing in health facilities
• Updated case management protocols for clinicians
• Public sensitization through media and community outreach
• Collaboration with regional health directorates for timely intervention

As schools across the country reopen, the Service is working closely with the Ghana Education Service (GES) to promote flu prevention in educational institutions. School authorities, parents, and students have been urged to remain vigilant and adhere to all recommended health measures.

Assurance to the Public

Dr. Samuel Kaba Akoriyea, Acting Director-General of the Ghana Health Service, assured the public that comprehensive measures are being implemented to manage the situation effectively. He called for the cooperation of all stakeholders in safeguarding public health.

“The Ministry of Health and the Ghana Health Service are fully committed to containing the current increase in influenza cases. We urge the public to play their part by observing preventive practices to protect themselves, their families, and their communities,” Dr. Akoriyea stated.

The Ministry reiterated its commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of all citizens as it continues to monitor the evolving influenza situation nationwide.