The Ghana Health Service (GHS) has announced heightened monitoring of a surge in acute respiratory infections, particularly those caused by the Human Metapneumovirus (hMPV), which is currently spreading across China and other parts of the Northern Hemisphere.

In a press release, the GHS clarified that this outbreak is not linked to a new virus, as was the case with COVID-19, but aligns with the typical seasonal increase of hMPV-related respiratory infections during the winter months.

The GHS emphasised the importance of public vigilance and preventive measures to mitigate potential risks.

In its statement, signed by Dr Patrick Kuma-Aboagye, Director-General of the GHS, the organisation noted that a recent meeting of the Public Health Emergency Operation Centre included updates from the National Influenza Centre (NIC).

It revealed that weekly respiratory samples from all 16 regions of Ghana have not identified any unusual respiratory pathogens, including hMPV.

To bolster readiness, the GHS has initiated various measures in collaboration with partners and in line with WHO guidelines.

These include enhanced surveillance of acute respiratory infections, expanded laboratory testing, continuous assessment of developments in the Northern Hemisphere and increased public education campaigns to raise awareness of preventive practices.

The health service has further advised the public to adhere to practical preventive measures, such as practising proper respiratory hygiene, maintaining hand hygiene, avoiding touching the face, wearing face masks when necessary, seeking prompt medical care and adopting healthy dietary habits.

These steps, it stated, would help minimise the spread of respiratory infections and protect public health.

Reassuring the nation, the GHS stated its commitment to safeguarding the well-being of Ghanaians.

“The GHS assures the public that it is taking necessary steps to protect the health of Ghanaians and will provide regular updates on the situation,” the statement concluded.