Mintah Ankando, Minister for Health
The Ghana Health Service (GHS) has issued a stern warning to stakeholders in the Upper East Region, urging them to intensify surveillance and vigilance efforts against Cerebrospinal Meningitis (CSM).
This call to action comes amidst growing concerns over the spread of the disease in northern Ghana.
According to Professor Samuel Kaba Akoriyea, Director-General of the GHS, the situation demands heightened awareness and education on meningitis symptoms and preventive measures.
This is particularly crucial in the Upper East and Upper West Regions, where cases have been reported.
“The situation appears to be under control, but we cannot be complacent. Stakeholders, particularly in the Upper West and Upper East Regions, must remain on high alert to prevent further spread,” Professor Akoriyea cautioned.
CSM In Ghana
Meningitis is not new to Ghana. The country has experienced outbreaks in the past, with the most recent one occurring in 2016.
During that outbreak, 153 cases were reported in the Brong Ahafo Region, resulting in 33 deaths.
In 2018, the GHS reported a total of 258 suspected cases of meningitis, with 32 deaths recorded.
The majority of these cases were reported in the northern regions of the country.
Current Situation
As of now, the Upper West Region has recorded 16 deaths out of 173 suspected cases, while the Upper East Region has reported two deaths from 31 suspected cases.
Although the situation appears to be under control, the GHS is cautioning against complacency.
“The public needs to be aware of the symptoms of meningitis, which include fever, headache, stiff neck, and vomiting. If anyone experiences these symptoms, they should seek medical attention immediately,” Professor Akoriyea emphasized.
Challenges and Concerns
Professor Akoriyea has expressed concerns over the public’s reluctance to seek early medical attention when symptoms appear.
He has also highlighted the need for heightened surveillance at Ghana’s borders, given the country’s proximity to Sahelian countries.
“We need to be vigilant at our borders to prevent the spread of meningitis from neighbouring countries. We also need to ensure that our health facilities are equipped to handle cases of meningitis,” Professor Akoriyea said.
Furthermore, the Director-General has drawn attention to the acute shortage of health workers in the region, attributing it to insecurity in conflict-prone areas such as Bawku.
“Without peace, health indicators will not improve. We need to ensure that our health workers are safe and secure in order to provide quality healthcare services,” Professor Akoriyea emphasized.
Way Forward
The GHS has assured that sufficient vaccines have been procured to respond swiftly to any potential outbreak.
Collaborative efforts with the Ghana Medical Association are also underway to improve the security and working environment for health professionals in the region.
“We are working closely with the Ghana Medical Association to ensure that our health workers are safe and secure. We are also providing training and education to our health workers to ensure that they are equipped to handle cases of meningitis,” Professor Akoriyea said.
As the situation continues to unfold, it is essential for stakeholders to remain vigilant and work together to prevent the spread of meningitis in Ghana.
The GHS has urged the public to remain calm but vigilant, and to seek medical attention immediately if they experience any symptoms of meningitis.
– Issah Olegor
