The Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research (NMIMR) hosted an Institutional Seminar on “Major Outbreaks in Ghana Since 2021,” presented by Dr. Ivy Asante, Research Fellow at the Virology Department on Tuesday, August 19, 2025. The seminar explored Ghana’s encounters with viral epidemics over the past four years and highlighted NMIMR’s role in national outbreak response.
Dr. Asante reported that between 2021 and 2025, Ghana recorded outbreaks of Yellow Fever, Marburg Virus Disease, Lassa Fever, Mpox, and Dengue Fever. The 2021 Yellow Fever outbreak resulted in 70 confirmed cases with a 17 percent fatality rate, while the 2022 Marburg Virus outbreak claimed two lives, with genetic sequencing linking the virus to the 2021 Guinea strain. Ghana also battled recurrent Mpox outbreaks in 2022, 2023, and 2025, which revealed the presence of multiple lineages. In 2023, Lassa Fever was reported in Greater Accra and Central Regions with 28 confirmed cases and one death, while Dengue Fever cases detected between 2022 and 2024 showed the circulation of both DENV-1 and DENV-3 serotypes.
Participants listening keenly as Dr. Asante shares insights on Ghana’s outbreak preparedness.
She explained that these outbreaks tested the country’s health systems but also created opportunities for scientific collaboration and research innovation. While interventions such as surveillance, vector control, and case management reduced severe outcomes, Dr. Asante cautioned that challenges including limited funding, inadequate diagnostic kits, and logistical constraints slowed response efforts.
“Outbreaks will continue to emerge, but through strong surveillance, timely diagnostics, and collaboration with partners, Ghana is better placed to respond effectively,” she said.
NMIMR staff and researchers at the Institutional Seminar on outbreaks in Ghana.
During the lively question-and-answer session, senior researchers and staff shared their perspectives, asked thought-provoking questions, and contributed insights that enriched the discussion. The exchange provided a broader view of Ghana’s outbreak preparedness and highlighted NMIMR’s role as a hub for scientific dialogue and solutions.
Senior researchers contributing their perspectives during the interactive discussion.
Dr. Asante concluded her presentation by emphasizing the need for continued vigilance and collaboration in tackling emerging infectious diseases. “Sustained collaboration, investment, and preparedness are key if Ghana is to effectively respond to future outbreaks,” she noted, underscoring the vital role of research in shaping public health interventions.
Dr. Ivy Asante emphasizing the importance of sustained collaboration, investment, and preparedness in her closing remarks.
The seminar underscored the importance of NMIMR’s partnerships with the Ghana Health Service, Ministry of Health, and the World Health Organization (WHO) in strengthening outbreak preparedness. It also formed part of the Institutional Seminar Series, which provides a platform for NMIMR scientists to share findings and stimulate dialogue on pressing health issues of national concern.