The Ghana Health Service (GHS) is exploring the use of artificial intelligence (AI) to predict disease outbreaks and strengthen emergency planning as Ghana intensifies preparations against the threat of Ebola.
GHS Director-General Dr Samuel Kaba Akoriyea said health officials were considering how emerging technologies could improve the assessment of public health risks and support timely decisions when infectious diseases threaten to cross national borders.
Speaking on Joy News’ PM Express on Monday, October 26, he said discussions were underway on how AI could help authorities anticipate developments and plan responses to potential health emergencies.
“From there, I move into a meeting where we are talking about technology and how to even use AI to help predict what will happen,” he said.
The proposed use of AI forms part of broader preparedness efforts amid concerns about Ebola outbreaks in parts of Africa and the possibility of the disease spreading through international travel.
Predictive technologies can analyse information such as disease trends, population movement and environmental conditions to identify emerging risks. This could help health authorities determine where surveillance should be strengthened and where resources may be needed.
However, the effectiveness of such systems would depend on access to reliable data, technical expertise and the ability of officials to act on the information generated.
AI would complement, rather than replace, laboratory testing, clinical assessment and established outbreak response measures.
Dr Kaba Akoriyea stressed that Ghana’s current efforts were focused on preparedness and did not mean an Ebola outbreak had been detected in the country.
“But now, let me say that when it comes to Ebola, we are in the face of preparedness,” he noted.
The GHS has conducted simulation exercises and engaged other state institutions to strengthen the country’s response arrangements.
The Director-General has also highlighted the role of the Public Health Emergency Operations Centre at Pantang in monitoring international health developments and coordinating emergency responses.
The preparations involve several agencies, including those responsible for health, security, education and disaster management, reflecting the need for a coordinated response if a suspected case is identified.
Ebola is a severe viral disease that can cause serious illness and death. It spreads through direct contact with the blood or other bodily fluids of an infected person who is symptomatic, or with contaminated materials.
Symptoms can develop between two and 21 days after exposure. Preparedness measures therefore include identifying and assessing suspected cases promptly, laboratory testing, appropriate isolation and clinical care, contact tracing, infection prevention and control, and public education.
