The Ghana Health Service (GHS) has announced a new health measure for travelers entering the country. As of November 12, all travelers must complete a health declaration form before their departure. This move aims to enhance the country's surveillance and preparedness in public health. The GHS urges travelers to use the dedicated online portal at https://ehds.ghs.gov.gh/declaration to complete the form.
The new directive is part of efforts to strengthen Ghana's public health systems and monitor potential health risks. The GHS emphasizes that this measure will help track potential health risks and protect the health and well-being of residents and visitors. Travel agencies, airlines, and other stakeholders are encouraged to inform passengers about this new requirement and ensure they are prepared.
This development comes after the Ministry of Health introduced a 21-day surveillance for travelers from countries affected by Ebola. The ministry announced new screening and surveillance measures for passengers arriving at Ghana's international airports. These measures aim to minimize the risk of introducing Ebola into Ghana and its subsequent spread through international travel.
The Ministry of Health's new measures require passengers to undergo screening by health officials upon arrival. Before traveling, passengers must complete a health declaration form and honestly declare any travel or transit through Ebola-affected countries within the previous 21 days. They must also report any close contact with suspected or confirmed Ebola patients.
Travelers exhibiting symptoms such as fever, weakness, headache, vomiting, diarrhea, or unexplained bleeding and bruising are advised to postpone their trip and seek medical attention immediately. Passengers who develop symptoms will be isolated temporarily for evaluation and referred to a health facility if necessary.
These new arrangements reflect Ghana's heightened health vigilance, with authorities seeking to strengthen prevention measures both within the country and at entry and exit points. Through this surveillance system, Ghana aims to limit the risks of importing and spreading infectious diseases, particularly Ebola and other potential health threats.
The Ghana Health Service has urged all travelers to comply with the directive, emphasizing that it will facilitate travel and support national efforts to protect public health. The country continues to prioritize public health, with these measures demonstrating its commitment to safeguarding residents and visitors alike.
Key points
- Travelers to Ghana must complete a health declaration form before departure effective November 12.
- The new measure aims to enhance Ghana's surveillance and preparedness in public health.
- The directive includes the use of a dedicated online portal for health declarations.
