The Ministry of Health has declared a yellow fever outbreak in parts of the Upper West Region after laboratory investigations confirmed three cases, all of which resulted in deaths.
The outbreak follows reports of suspected cases involving patients presenting with fever, jaundice and bleeding at health facilities in Sissala West and Sissala East from September 9, 2026.
According to the Ministry, samples were initially tested in Ghana before further investigations at the World Health Organisation (WHO)-accredited Institut Pasteur in Dakar, Senegal, confirmed the three infections. All three patients died despite efforts by health workers to manage their conditions.
“In line with the International Health Regulations (2005) and the National Public Health Act, 2012 (Act 851), the Minister for Health hereby declares a Yellow Fever outbreak in the affected districts in the Upper West Region,” the statement said.
The government has activated national and regional public health emergency operations centres and deployed rapid response teams to affected communities to strengthen surveillance, identify cases and educate residents on prevention.
A targeted emergency vaccination campaign is being prepared for Wa West, Sissala West and Sissala East districts this October.
Yellow fever is a viral disease spread by infected mosquitoes that mostly bite during the day. Symptoms include sudden fever, headache, muscle pain, yellowing of the eyes or skin, and unusual bleeding.
The Ministry has urged the public to seek immediate medical attention if these symptoms occur, eliminate stagnant water around homes and use insecticide-treated mosquito nets and repellents. It has also cautioned against self-medication.
“The Ministry calls on traditional and religious leaders, the media, civil society, and all citizens to support the national response,” the statement said.
The Ministry added that the government would provide regular updates, including details of the vaccination campaign, as the situation evolves.
