By Grace Zigah
The Ministry of Health has officially declared a yellow fever outbreak in affected districts of the Upper West Region after laboratory investigations confirmed three cases of the viral disease, all of which resulted in deaths.
In a press release issued by Health Minister, Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, the Ministry said the confirmation followed investigations into suspected cases reported in health facilities in Sissala West and Wa West districts from September 9, 2026.
The investigations were initiated by the Ghana Health Service (GHS) through its disease surveillance system after patients presented with symptoms including fever, jaundice and bleeding.
Although samples were initially tested in Ghana, further laboratory analysis conducted at the World Health Organisation-accredited Institute Pasteur in Dakar, Senegal, confirmed three yellow fever infections.
The Ministry disclosed that all three patients died despite intensive medical management by health professionals at the facilities where they were treated.
The Ministry has urged residents to seek immediate medical attention if they experience symptoms associated with yellow fever.
These include sudden fever, headache, muscle pain, yellowing of the eyes or skin, and unusual bleeding.
The public has been advised not to rely on self-medication but to report suspected symptoms promptly to the nearest health facility for assessment and appropriate care.
Yellow fever is a viral disease transmitted by infected mosquitoes, which commonly bite during the day. As part of preventive measures, residents have been urged to eliminate stagnant water around their homes, use mosquito repellents and sleep under insecticide-treated mosquito nets.
The Ministry is also encouraging residents to follow official updates from the Ghana Health Service and the Ministry of Health while avoiding the circulation of rumours and unverified information.
