Yellow fever outbreak: ‘Deaths have already triggered panic’ – Public Health Analyst

Health Minister Kwabena Mintah Akandoh informed that approximately 450 suspected yellow fever cases have been recorded in Ghana between June and September 2026, with the Upper West Region bearing the brunt of the outbreak. Among the 74 suspected cases in the Upper West Region, three have been confirmed as yellow fever. The Minister emphasized that suspected cases must undergo laboratory confirmation before deaths or illnesses can be conclusively attributed to the disease.

As of the latest update, these suspected cases were around 450 from June to September. The Minister reported that the government has intensified surveillance and response efforts, particularly in northern Ghana, where laboratories have been supplied with necessary reagents to facilitate testing and confirmation of suspected cases.

A National Rapid Response Team has been deployed to the Upper West Region, while designated areas at district hospitals have been isolated to manage suspected and confirmed patients. Akandoh called on the public and media organizations to remain calm and support the health authorities' response, assuring that measures have been put in place to contain the situation. He emphasized that there is no need to panic, and the media should handle the situation well.