The Ghana Health Service (GHS) has issued an alert over a rise in seasonal influenza cases across several regions of the country, warning the public to take preventive measures as the nation enters its annual flu season.

According to a statement signed by Acting Director-General, Dr. Samuel Kaba Akoriyea, the cases confirmed as Influenza A strains H3N2 and H1N1  have been recorded mainly in the Greater Accra, Central, Bono, and Eastern Regions.

The surge, the Service explained, coincides with Ghana’s cooler months when flu infections typically peak.

The GHS noted that symptoms of seasonal influenza include a sudden onset of fever, cough, sore throat, runny nose, body aches, headache, and fatigue.

The virus spreads largely through respiratory droplets from infected persons during coughing, sneezing, or talking, as well as through contact with contaminated surfaces.

High-risk environments, the Service cautioned, include schools, dormitories, transport terminals, and markets, where close contact facilitates rapid transmission.

Those at greatest risk include children and adolescents, particularly while schools are in session, the elderly, pregnant women, and individuals with chronic conditions such as asthma, diabetes, and heart disease.

To minimise the spread, the GHS has urged the public to seek prompt medical care when flu-like symptoms appear, stay home when unwell, maintain proper hygiene by washing hands regularly and covering coughs and sneezes, disinfect frequently touched surfaces, avoid crowded areas, and wear face masks in congested places.

The Ghana Health Service said it has enhanced surveillance and rapid diagnostic testing at health facilities, updated case management protocols for clinicians, and intensified public education through the media and community channels. Regional health directorates have also been tasked to ensure a timely and coordinated response.

With schools now reopened, the Service is urging school authorities, parents, and students to strictly adhere to flu prevention measures.

The GHS says it is working closely with the Ghana Education Service to safeguard the health of learners and staff.

Dr. Akoriyea assured the public that all necessary interventions are being implemented to contain the situation, emphasising that cooperation from the public and stakeholders is crucial in protecting families and communities during this flu season.