Kwabena Mintah Akandoh assures public over 450 suspected yellow fever cases

Health Minister Kwabena Mintah Akandoh has assured the public that the current yellow fever outbreak in Ghana is being managed effectively. According to the Minister, there are currently 450 suspected cases reported across all 16 regions of the country. While the number of suspected cases appears significant, Akandoh emphasized that the government has taken proactive measures to contain the spread and protect vulnerable populations nationwide.

The Upper West Region has emerged as a primary focus for health authorities, reporting 88 of the suspected cases. Out of these, three cases have been officially confirmed following testing at the Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research. In response to these developments, the Ministry of Health is prioritizing resources for the region to ensure that the situation does not escalate into a larger public health crisis.

To combat the outbreak, the government is expanding its vaccination program to cover a broad demographic, specifically targeting individuals aged between nine months and 60 years. Minister Akandoh revealed that an additional 187,000 doses of the yellow fever vaccine have been requested from international partners to bolster the nationwide campaign. Vaccination teams have already been organized and are prepared to commence intensive immunization exercises in the Upper West Region immediately.

The Minister’s reassurance comes as part of a broader public health strategy to maintain surveillance and response capabilities across all administrative regions. By focusing on both immediate vaccination in high-risk areas and the procurement of additional medical supplies, the Ministry aims to curb the transmission of the virus. The public is encouraged to remain vigilant and cooperate with health teams as they conduct the upcoming vaccination drives to ensure national health security.