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Health authorities in the Upper West Region have raised alarm over the rising cases of cerebrospinal meningitis (CSM), with infections increasing from 42 to 60 and fatalities climbing to 14.
Dr. Damien Punguyire, the regional health director, attributes the growing death toll to frequent misdiagnoses, delayed treatment, and the high cost of medical care. Many cases, he explains, are initially mistaken for malaria, leading to ineffective treatment and worsening conditions before proper medical intervention is sought.
Dr. Punguyire emphasised the critical need for early detection and swift medical attention to curb fatalities. He advised individuals diagnosed with malaria to seek further medical evaluation if symptoms persist or worsen within 12 to 24 hours.
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“For the numbers increasing, we are not too worried about that, but what we are worried about is the number of deaths,” he stated. “This is a germ that naturally exists in our bodies, particularly in the nose and throat. Under normal conditions, it does not cause disease, but when certain unfavourable factors arise, it can invade the body and trigger meningitis.”
Health officials are intensifying efforts to contain the outbreak, including public education on preventive measures such as avoiding overcrowding and staying hydrated to keep the throat moist and resistant to infection.
Dr. Punguyire urged residents to seek immediate medical attention if they experience symptoms such as fever, neck pain, or a persistently high body temperature.
Meanwhile, discussions are underway to introduce free treatment for affected patients to alleviate financial barriers and encourage prompt healthcare access.
Authorities are calling for heightened public awareness and swift action to prevent further loss of life as they work to bring the outbreak under control.
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