The 13 suspected cases of Ebola reported in the Brong-Ahafo Region have proved negative, Dr Jacob Abebrese, Medical Superintendent at the Regional Hospital in Sunyani confirmed on Friday.

He said the Regional Directorate of Health had put in place measures, and stringent surveillance to check any possible outbreak of Ebola and urged residents not to be scared.

Dr Abebrese made this known when Management of Ahafo Mine of Newmont Ghana Gold Limited, presented Ebola medical equipment to the Directorate to be distributed to some hospitals in the region.

The items include surgical mask, clinical waste disposal bags, gloves, mask faces, thermoter, threatre shoes, surgical gowns, sterile disposals, and protection packs and rubber boots, plastic aprons, safety goggles, paper towels, alcohol gels and surgical caps disposals.

Dr Abebrese explained that though the country has not confirmed any case of Ebola, there is the need to prepare adequately to avoid an outbreak.

He advised Ghanaians to guard against handshakes and ensure that they wash their hands with soap after attending social ceremonies.

Mr Jeop Coenen, General Manager, Newmont Ahafo Mine, explained that the safety of its employees, contractors, communities and the nation as a whole remains the company’s foremost priority.

He said it is important for the nation to take proactive steps to prevent and manage the deadly viral disease.

Mr Coenon said Newmont deems it an obligation to contribute to the country’s Ebola preparedness plan and the company is supporting the government in a number of ways at both the national, regional and local levels.

“Our total assistance package is valued at GH?220,000.00 and allocated to the local, regional and national hospitals”, he said.

He advised Ghanaians to observe personal hygiene protocols such as frequent hand washing not only to guard against the Ebola virus but other infections.