Health News from Ghana

The latest health news from Ghana, curated from the country's leading newsrooms and updated through the day. Newest stories first.

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Metagenomic testing identifies life-threatening pathogens in hours

Metagenomic testing is transforming the landscape of medical diagnostics by allowing clinicians to identify pathogens in hours rather than the days required by traditional culture methods. Originally used to identify the first samples of Covid-19 from the Huanan Seafood Market in late 2019, this advanced genetic technique is now being integrated into clinical settings to assist in life-or-death medical decisions. By sequencing DNA and RNA directly from patient samples, the technology provides a comprehensive view of the microbes present, enabling doctors to pinpoint infections that might otherwise go undetected. The clinical application of this technology has been particularly effective in treating severe conditions such as meningitis and encephalitis. Dr. Charles Chiu and his team have pioneered metagenomic tests specifically designed to analyze cerebrospinal fluid, providing rapid and accurate diagnoses that lead to immediate, life-saving treatments. For immunocompromised patients, whose systems are often vulnerable to a wide array of rare pathogens, this speed and precision are critical. Where traditional diagnostics might fail to identify a cause, metagenomics can scan for almost every known infection simultaneously. Beyond individual patient care, the broader implications of metagenomic testing suggest a shift toward precision medicine and enhanced public health surveillance. Research indicates that the technique could significantly improve the detection of pathogens in respiratory infections and is being explored as a tool to monitor sewage for viral traces, potentially identifying future pandemic threats before they escalate. As the technology continues to evolve, its ability to provide rapid, actionable data is expected to become a standard component of modern healthcare, ensuring that treatments are tailored to the specific genetic profile of an infection.

A medical professional is shown assisting a colleague with the donning of full personal protective equipment (PPE), including a hooded hazmat suit, turquoise mask, and goggles. They are standing in a clinical hallway next to a sign detailing instructions for donning and doffing equipment, likely in preparation for treating patients with infectious diseases.
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Kenya confirms four new Ebola cases as national total rises to seven

The Kenyan Ministry of Health has confirmed four additional cases of the Ebola Bundibugyo virus, bringing the total number of confirmed infections in the country to seven. These new cases are all linked to a single family cluster originating from an index patient who recently returned from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). Health authorities emphasized that while the total case count has risen, there is currently no evidence of widespread community transmission, as all detected infections remain within identified contact groups. Among the newly confirmed cases are three healthcare workers who provided medical treatment to the initial patient, as well as a 65-year-old woman related to the deceased victim. This relative had been under quarantine since October 6 and began exhibiting symptoms during her isolation. The index patient passed away on October 5, shortly after arriving from the DRC. In response, health officials have traced 130 contacts, most of whom are currently in quarantine to mitigate the risk of further spread. The outbreak involves the Bundibugyo strain of the Ebola virus, which currently lacks an approved vaccine, unlike the more common Zaire strain. This makes early detection and strict containment protocols essential for managing the situation. The World Health Organization (WHO) is currently supporting Kenya’s Ministry of Health in its containment efforts, focusing on contact tracing and biosecurity at informal border crossings. Public health officials continue to advocate for rigorous hygiene practices and have urged the public to report any symptoms, such as fever and fatigue, to medical authorities immediately.

Vapes were meant to help people quit cigarettes. Now non-smokers are taking up vaping
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UK records one million non-smokers using e-cigarettes

Public health experts in the United Kingdom are raising alarms following reports that more than one million individuals who have never smoked traditional cigarettes have taken up vaping. This shift represents a significant departure from the original intent of e-cigarettes, which were developed and marketed primarily as tools to help long-term smokers quit tobacco. Instead, a new demographic of non-smokers, particularly young adults, is increasingly adopting the habit, often without ever having used a conventional cigarette. Data suggests that many of these new users, such as young adult Gracey Mungulu, are turning to vaping as a coping mechanism for social anxiety and habitual stress. Experts warn that this reliance is creating a growing psychological dependence among users who view the devices as essential for navigating daily pressures. While vaping is generally considered less harmful than traditional smoking, the rise in its popularity among non-smokers suggests that the devices are no longer just a "gateway away" from tobacco but are becoming a primary habit in their own right. The National Health Service (NHS) has highlighted the potential risks associated with e-cigarette use, particularly among young people, and is concerned about the impact of engaging marketing strategies. As the UK government explores stricter regulations to counteract the appeal of these products to non-smokers, the difficulty of quitting for habitual users remains a central concern. The transition of vaping from a cessation tool to a lifestyle choice for over a million non-smokers marks a pivotal challenge for public health policy in the coming years.

The reporter interacting with Seidu Amina, fistula survivor
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Access Bank Ghana supports obstetric fistula repairs in Zabzugu

Access Bank Ghana, in partnership with the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) and the Ghana Health Service (GHS), has launched an initiative to provide surgical repairs and social reintegration for obstetric fistula survivors in the Zabzugu District. The collaboration addresses a critical maternal health challenge that often leaves affected women suffering from chronic physical pain and severe social isolation. By combining medical intervention with psychological and social support, the program aims to restore the dignity of women who have faced years of stigma. The impact of the initiative is already being felt by survivors like Seidu Amina and Dana Juliana, who reported reclaiming their lives after receiving treatment. Their stories reflect a broader health need in the Zabzugu District, which recorded multiple suspected cases of the condition throughout 2024 and 2025. Obstetric fistula typically occurs during prolonged, obstructed labor without timely medical intervention, resulting in a hole between the birth canal and the bladder or rectum. The project focuses on identifying these suspected cases and providing the necessary surgical interventions to close the injuries. To ensure the long-term sustainability of these efforts, Access Bank Ghana has established the Fistula Trust Fund. This fund is designed to provide ongoing financial and medical assistance for survivors, covering the costs of surgeries and supporting reintegration strategies to help women return to their communities. The bank is encouraging the public to contribute to the trust fund, with the goal of expanding the reach of the program to more women across the Northern Region and beyond. In addition to medical treatment, the partnership is focused on an extensive public awareness campaign to dismantle the misconceptions and stigma surrounding the condition. The Ghana Health Service and its partners are working to foster community understanding, emphasizing that obstetric fistula is a treatable medical condition rather than a source of shame. Moving forward, the initiative plans to enhance early detection efforts and provide a comprehensive support system that includes both physical recovery and the social empowerment of survivors.

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Ghana AIDS Commission launches Youth Desk to curb rising HIV infections

The Ghana AIDS Commission (GAC) has officially launched a Youth Desk to enhance the involvement and leadership of young people in the national HIV and AIDS response. The initiative, established under the theme "Strengthening Youth Leadership and Partnership for an Inclusive HIV Response," seeks to empower the youth to take a central role in developing prevention programs and policies. This strategic move comes as the commission identifies young people as a critical demographic in the fight against the epidemic, requiring tailored interventions to be effective. According to the Director-General of the Commission, Dr. Prosper Kharmacelle Akanbong, the 15-24 age group is currently at the center of the country's health concerns, accounting for approximately one-third of all new HIV infections in Ghana. Dr. Akanbong highlighted that this alarming statistic necessitates a shift in strategy, focusing on more effective and relatable prevention messaging. The Youth Desk is designed to bridge the gap between high-level policy formulation and the lived experiences of young Ghanaians, ensuring that health communication resonates with its intended audience. The newly established desk aims to improve access to vital health information, foster meaningful collaboration among various youth-led organizations, and promote innovative approaches to HIV prevention. By providing a dedicated platform within the GAC, the commission intends to ensure that the voices of young people are influential in shaping the national health agenda. The initiative encourages youth to move beyond being passive recipients of information to becoming active advocates and leaders in their communities. Coordinator of the new desk, Dorcas Nyarko, emphasized that the success of this initiative depends on a collective sense of responsibility among all stakeholders. She called on development partners, civil society, and community leaders to support youth-led initiatives in HIV prevention and education. As the Youth Desk begins its operations, the GAC expects it to serve as a catalyst for reducing infection rates and ensuring a more inclusive, youth-driven response to HIV and AIDS across the country.

Ebola outbreak kills 10 students in Ituri Province, DR Congo
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Ebola outbreak kills 10 students in Ituri Province, DR Congo

At least 10 students in the Ituri Province of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) have died from Ebola, authorities have confirmed. The fatalities come amidst a resurgence of the viral disease in the region, raising significant concerns among health officials and the local population. This tragic development follows the official reopening of schools for the new academic year, a move that was intended to restore normalcy but has now been overshadowed by the lethal spread of the virus among the youth. The deaths occurred just over a month after educational institutions resumed operations, highlighting the risks associated with congregate settings during an active outbreak. Health authorities in the province are working to identify specific clusters of infection and have intensified surveillance to prevent further transmission within the school environment. The Ituri Province has historically been a hotspot for Ebola outbreaks, and the current fatalities among the student population underscore the persistent vulnerability of public institutions during such health crises. Officials are currently monitoring several other potential cases as part of broader containment efforts to curb the viral spread in the region. Containment efforts are now the primary focus for health teams in the DRC. These measures include contact tracing, the disinfection of school premises, and public health campaigns to educate families on early symptoms and preventive measures. The situation in Ituri highlights the ongoing challenge of managing infectious diseases in conflict-prone or resource-constrained regions. Moving forward, the government and international health partners will likely reassess safety protocols for schools to ensure that the academic year can continue without further loss of life, while maintaining high vigilance for any new symptoms appearing in the community.

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Jonathan the 194-year-old tortoise offers clues to human longevity

Scientists have turned their attention to Jonathan, a 194-year-old Aldabra giant tortoise residing on the island of St. Helena, to unlock the secrets of biological longevity. As the world’s oldest known living terrestrial animal, Jonathan has lived through nearly two centuries of history, prompting researchers to investigate how his body has resisted the typical signs of aging and disease. This research into his unique genetic resilience aims to provide groundbreaking insights into cellular health that could eventually benefit human medicine. Recent studies involving the sequencing of Jonathan’s genome and epigenome have revealed specific genetic traits that contribute to his record-breaking lifespan. Researchers identified significant changes in his DNA repair mechanisms and mitochondrial function, which appear to maintain youthful cellular activity far beyond that of other species. These findings suggest that Jonathan’s body possesses a superior ability to protect its genetic code from the degradation that typically leads to age-related illnesses. Despite his advanced age and the fact that he is mostly blind, the tortoise remains remarkably active and maintains a voracious appetite. His survival on St. Helena since the 19th century serves as a testament to his physical resilience and ability to withstand environmental changes. While scientists are impressed by his condition, they are currently working to determine if these life-extending traits are common among Aldabra giant tortoises as a whole or if Jonathan possesses a unique genetic profile that has allowed him to outlive his peers. The ongoing study of Jonathan’s biology represents a significant step in the fields of gerontology and evolutionary biology. By understanding how such a creature manages to maintain cellular integrity over two centuries, scientists hope to develop new strategies for promoting longevity and combating degenerative diseases in humans. As the oldest living animal on land, Jonathan continues to be a living laboratory, offering a rare window into the potential limits of biological life.

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Health professionals warn against traditional fertility counting methods

Health professionals in Ghana are raising alarms over the continued overreliance on traditional fertility counting methods, a practice that contributes significantly to the country's high rates of unintended pregnancies. Current statistics indicate that only approximately 32% of Ghanaian women utilize formal family planning services, leaving a vast majority dependent on informal techniques or cultural advice. Experts emphasize that while many women believe they can accurately predict "safe" days post-menstruation, these methods often oversimplify the complex biological process of ovulation, leading to a gap in effective reproductive healthcare.The dilemma faced by many women is exemplified by individuals like Bridget, who find themselves caught between modern digital tools and the traditional wisdom of their social circles. While fertility tracking apps are gaining popularity, many women still prioritize the advice of friends and elders who promote specific counting methods for avoiding pregnancy. This reliance on informal networks is frequently rooted in deep-seated cultural beliefs and a lack of comprehensive formal education regarding reproductive health. For many, the choice is not just between technology and tradition, but a struggle to navigate conflicting information about their own bodies.Medical practitioners point out that traditional counting methods are often unreliable because they fail to account for the natural variations in menstrual cycles. By assuming a uniform window for fertility, women may inadvertently engage in unprotected intercourse during high-risk periods. Professionals are now calling for a shift in focus toward better public education that explains the intricacies of fertility cycles and the timing of ovulation. They stress that even digital apps have limitations and should be used as part of a broader understanding of modern reproductive health rather than as a standalone solution.Addressing the low uptake of family planning requires a multi-faceted approach that bridges the gap between traditional practices and modern medical standards. Health advocates argue that improving reproductive outcomes in Ghana will depend on empowering women with accurate, evidence-based knowledge that demystifies ovulation. As the country seeks to reduce unintended pregnancies, the priority remains fostering a deeper understanding of bodily autonomy and ensuring that women have access to reliable family planning resources that transcend cultural myths and informal advice.

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Barbara Koomson dispels fears of waking up during surgery

Dr. Barbara Koomson, a specialist anaesthesiologist at the Greater Accra Regional Hospital, has addressed common misconceptions and fears regarding anaesthesia ahead of World Anaesthesia Day. Speaking on the safety of modern medical practices, she sought to reassure the public that anaesthesia is a highly regulated field administered by trained specialists. Her remarks aim to reduce the anxiety often felt by patients scheduled for surgical procedures, emphasizing that patient safety remains the highest priority for the surgical team. One of the most persistent myths Dr. Koomson addressed is the fear of patients waking up in the middle of a surgical procedure. She clarified that with modern techniques and constant monitoring by specialists, such incidents are extremely rare. Additionally, she tackled the common complaint of back pain following surgery, explaining that this discomfort is often a result of how a patient is positioned on the operating table for the duration of the procedure, rather than being a direct complication of the anaesthetic itself. The specialist outlined the various methods used in hospitals today, including general, regional, and local anaesthesia. Each type is carefully selected based on the specific requirements of the surgery and the health profile of the patient. Dr. Koomson noted that by understanding these different applications, patients can better appreciate the specialized care they receive. She stressed that the involvement of qualified anaesthesiologists is crucial in managing these different levels of sedation and pain relief effectively. World Anaesthesia Day is observed annually on October 16 to commemorate the first successful public demonstration of ether anaesthesia in 1846. This event revolutionized the medical field, allowing for complex surgeries to be performed without the patient feeling pain. Dr. Koomson’s outreach serves as a reminder of the progress made in the field and the essential role that anaesthesiologists play in the healthcare system, ensuring that life-saving surgeries can be conducted safely and humanely.

John H. Amuasi advocates for upstream prevention at World Health Summit
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John H. Amuasi advocates for upstream prevention at World Health Summit

Professor John H. Amuasi, a leading academic from the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), has called for a transformative shift in global public health strategies. Speaking at the World Health Summit 2026 in Berlin, Professor Amuasi urged the international community to move away from simply treating the symptoms of disease and instead focus on "upstream prevention." This approach targets the root environmental and social conditions that lead to health crises before they emerge, rather than reacting to them after they have already taken hold. Central to Professor Amuasi’s presentation was the "One Health" framework, which recognizes that the health of humans is intrinsically linked to the health of animals and the environment. He argued that the current global health architecture is often too reactive and fragmented. By adopting a "One Health" perspective, policymakers can better understand the interconnectedness of biological and ecological systems, allowing for more robust interventions against emerging zoonotic threats and climate-related health issues. He stressed that this transition requires a fundamental rethink of how health systems are funded and managed. Amuasi also highlighted the critical role of multi-sectoral collaboration, specifically pointing to the intersection of education and policy. He noted that promoting a deep-seated understanding of health and environmental stewardship among younger generations is essential for long-term sustainability. According to the professor, the burden of maintaining public health should not fall solely on the medical community but must be shared by educators and government officials who shape the social landscape in which people live and work. Furthermore, Professor Amuasi emphasized the indispensable role of the media in communicating complex health and environmental issues to the general public. He called for more effective and transparent communication to bridge the gap between scientific research and public awareness. By building a comprehensive approach that extends beyond traditional healthcare facilities, Amuasi believes the global community can build more resilient societies capable of preventing the next pandemic or environmental health disaster through proactive, informed action.

Clayton Hotel pool fumes hospitalise 12 children in Dublin
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Clayton Hotel pool fumes hospitalise 12 children in Dublin

Twelve children and one adult were hospitalised in Dublin, Ireland, following exposure to toxic fumes at a hotel swimming pool during a swimming lesson. The incident occurred at the Clayton Hotel Liffey Valley when an accidental chemical reaction released harmful vapours into the aquatic area. Emergency services, including the Dublin Fire Brigade, were quickly dispatched to the scene to manage the situation and provide immediate medical assessment for those involved. The respiratory emergency was triggered by the incorrect mixing of chlorine with another chemical substance, which immediately produced toxic fumes. A total of 23 individuals were medically assessed by first responders on-site. While some were cleared after initial evaluation, 13 people—consisting of 12 children and one adult—required more intensive care and were transported to local hospitals for treatment. Witnesses reported that the victims experienced various degrees of respiratory distress and coughing after the accidental release. In response to the accident, the Dublin Fire Brigade isolated the chemicals and ensured the area was properly ventilated to restore air quality. The management of the Clayton Hotel Liffey Valley has launched a formal investigation into the circumstances surrounding the chemical handling error. The hotel expressed its concern for the well-being of the affected children and their families, stating that safety remains a top priority as they review their operational procedures to prevent future occurrences.

Theovision International provides free healthcare to 2,500 residents
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Theovision International provides free healthcare to 2,500 residents

Theovision International has conducted an extensive medical outreach program, providing free healthcare services to approximately 2,500 people across the Ashanti and Bono East Regions. The initiative targeted vulnerable populations in the Anyinofi and Watoro areas, including inmates at the Ejura Prison. This outreach was designed to address immediate health needs while facilitating long-term access to the formal health system through the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS). During the exercise, medical teams identified and treated a variety of common and chronic health conditions. Prevalent issues among the beneficiaries included malaria, rheumatism, and upper respiratory tract infections. Beyond providing direct medical treatment, the organization focused on sustainable health coverage by assisting 401 individuals with new NHIS registrations or the renewal of expired memberships. This ensures that these residents can continue to access medical services at local facilities after the outreach concludes. Mr. Theodore Philip Asare, President of Theovision International, emphasized that the initiative is part of the organization’s commitment to supporting rural and underserved communities in achieving their wellness goals. The District Director of Health commended the NGO for the intervention, noting that the data collected during the screenings will be used by local health authorities to guide future healthcare interventions and resource allocation in these rural zones. While Theovision is widely recognized for its work in recording the Bible in over 500 African languages, this medical mission reflects its broader mandate of providing holistic support to deprived areas. By integrating humanitarian aid with its existing community engagement, the organization seeks to bridge the healthcare gap for Ghana's most vulnerable citizens. The successful completion of this program marks another step in their ongoing efforts to improve health outcomes in remote districts.