Upper West Region records 17 suspected cases of meningitis, 6 deaths

The Upper West Region has reported 17 suspected cases of cerebrospinal meningitis, with six confirmed deaths, according to Dr Collins Boateng Danquah, Deputy Director of Public Health.

He disclosed that the cases were recorded across six districts, with the highest numbers in the Nadowli/Kaleo District and Nandom Municipality.

Cerebrospinal meningitis is a fatal disease common in the meningitis belt, which spans the Upper West, Upper East, and Northern regions of Ghana. The disease often begins in October and claims several lives during this period.

Speaking to Channel One News, Dr Danquah urged the public to stay in well-ventilated areas and to promptly seek medical attention if experiencing symptoms such as headaches or fever.

He noted that the specific strain causing the cases has not been identified, and a mass vaccination campaign is not anticipated since the situation does not meet the criteria for an outbreak.

According to the Deputy Director of Public Health, the Upper West Region has recorded 17 suspected cases across six of its 11 districts. Of these, seven cases have been confirmed, resulting in six deaths, primarily in the Nadowli/Kaleo District and Nandom Municipality.

“Dr. Danquah advised the public to take preventive measures, such as avoiding overcrowded areas, ensuring proper ventilation in living spaces, and staying hydrated to maintain healthy skin. He emphasized the importance of seeking early medical care if symptoms like headaches, fever, and neck pain occur. He further assured the public that the region is well-prepared to contain the disease’s spread.”

Some residents of the Upper West Region expressed surprise at the reported cases of cerebrospinal meningitis, noting that the disease typically occurs during the hotter months starting in March. They called on the Ghana Health Service to intensify public sensitization efforts to raise awareness about the disease and its prevention.