Health Alert: Ghana Health Service confirms rising seasonal flu cases, urges public vigilance
The Ghana Health Service (GHS) has issued a public alert confirming a significant increase in seasonal influenza cases across several regions of the country.
In a press release dated October 15, 2025, the service identified the circulating viruses as Influenza A strains H3N2 and H1N1, which are known seasonal flu viruses.
The rise in infections has been particularly noted in the Greater Accra, Central, Bono, and Eastern Regions. The GHS clarified that this increase coincides with Ghana's annual flu season, which typically peaks during the cooler months of the year.
According to the service, symptoms of the seasonal flu include a sudden onset of fever, cough, sore throat, runny nose, body aches, headache, and fatigue. The illness primarily spreads through respiratory droplets released during coughing, sneezing, or talking, as well as through contact with contaminated surfaces. Crowded environments such as schools, dormitories, transport hubs, and markets are considered high-risk settings for rapid transmission.
The GHS specifically warned that children and adolescents, especially with schools in session, the elderly, pregnant women, and people with chronic illnesses such as asthma, diabetes, and heart disease are at higher risk of severe complications.
The public is advised to seek medical care early if they develop flu-like symptoms and to stay home when unwell to avoid spreading the infection. The service also emphasised the importance of practising good hygiene, including washing hands regularly with soap and running water, covering coughs and sneezes, and disinfecting frequently touched surfaces. Furthermore, GHS recommended that citizens "avoid crowded places and close contact with sick individuals" and "use a face mask when in crowded places."
On the health system's response, the GHS stated it has implemented enhanced surveillance and rapid diagnostic testing at health facilities, updated case management protocols for clinicians, and launched public education campaigns through media and community channels.
With schools reopening across the country, the service issued a direct appeal to all school authorities, parents, and students to strictly observe the outlined flu prevention measures. The GHS confirmed it is "working with the Ghana Education Service to safeguard the health of students and staff during this period."
The Ministry of Health, through the GHS, assured the public that all necessary measures are being taken to contain the high number of flu cases. It concluded that "the cooperation of stakeholders are vital in protecting yourself, your family, and your community."
The statement was signed by Dr. Samuel Kaba Akoriyea, the Ag. Director-General of the Ghana Health Service.
