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Ghana is facing an outbreak of the flu as health officials urge greater caution and the public to follow protective measures to limit the spread of the virus.

A statement released and signed by the Director-General of the Ghana Health Service (GHS), Dr. Samuel Kaba Akoriyea, yesterday indicated that an increase in seasonal flu cases has been verified in several areas of the country, especially in the Greater Accra, Central, Bono, and Eastern regions.

Laboratory analysis has found that Influenza A strains H3N2 and H1N1 are primarily responsible for the outbreak. As per the GHS, this increase aligns with the nation’s regular flu season, which reaches its highest point in the colder months.

Symptoms are characterized by an abrupt rise in temperature, a persistent cough, sore throat, nasal discharge, muscle pains, head pain, and a feeling of exhaustion. Influenza is primarily transmitted via respiratory droplets produced when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or speaks, or through contact with objects that have been contaminated.

The Service warned that densely populated areas like schools, dormitories, markets, and transportation hubs pose a significant risk for quick spread. It mentioned that the most susceptible groups are children, pregnant women, the elderly, and individuals with long-term health conditions such as asthma, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease.

The GHS encouraged people to consult a healthcare professional promptly if they experience flu-like symptoms, remain at home when feeling unwell, and practice proper hygiene by regularly washing hands with soap and clean water, covering coughs and sneezes, and cleaning surfaces that are often touched.

The GHS recommended wearing face masks in densely populated areas and advised individuals to stay away from those who are unwell.

Nevertheless, the Service mentioned that it has improved disease monitoring, implemented rapid diagnostic testing in multiple healthcare centers, revised treatment guidelines for medical professionals, and increased public awareness via media and community platforms to handle the circumstances.

It mentioned that it was also collaborating closely with the Ghana Education Service (GES) to ensure the well-being of students and employees.

“As schools resume across the nation, the statement called on all school administrators, parents, and students to strictly follow flu prevention protocols,” the statement requested.

“The Ministry of Health, via the GHS, guarantees the public that all required actions are being implemented to manage these high flu cases, and the involvement of partners is essential in safeguarding yourself, your family, and your community,” it stated.

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Tagged: Ghana, Health and Medicine, West Africa

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