KEY POINTS
- Government officials visited Upper West to address the meningitis outbreak.
- Medical supplies were delivered to hospitals treating infected patients.
- Community leaders pledged support to help contain the crisis.
Ghana’s Minister of Health, Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, and the Acting Director-General of the Ghana Health Service, Prof. Samuel Kaba Akoriyea, visited the Upper West Region to evaluate the severity of the ongoing meningitis outbreak and provide government support to affected communities.
Their visit on February 12, 2025, was part of a broader strategy to enhance Ghana’s response to the outbreak, ensuring that resources and medical assistance reach the hardest-hit areas.
During the trip, Akandoh and Akoriyea met with key local leaders, including Regional Minister and Wa Naa, Seidu Fuseini Pelpuo IV.
Moreover, they discussed methods for containing the spread, ways to strengthen medical care and examined what should be done to address upcoming public health challenges.
Strengthening response efforts with medical support
The Minister and Director-General extended their visit to the Nadowli Kaleo District, where they met with the District Coordinating Director and health officials.
They toured the district hospital that treats numerous meningitis patients while meeting with healthcare staff.
Government officials strengthened disease combat capabilities by delivering crucial medical supplies such as vaccines and antibiotics to the region.
According to Graphic Online, Akandoh emphasized that early detection and timely medical intervention are critical in preventing further fatalities.
“It is better to have people seeking medical care early rather than waiting until it’s too late,” he said. He urged residents to avoid crowded places and immediately seek treatment if they experience symptoms such as severe headaches, fever, and neck stiffness.
Community leaders pledge support
During the visit, the team met with traditional leaders who strongly contribute to public health initiatives.
Also, the Wa Naa expressed his commitment to working with the government to help curb the spread of meningitis.
“We stand with you in this fight and will ensure that our communities take the necessary precautions,” he said, pledging cooperation between local authorities and health officials.
Dr. Koku Awoonor-Williams joined Akandoh as his Technical Advisor to inform people about the government’s ongoing support for surveillance improvement, response preparedness, and outreach education.
The Ghana Health Service emphasized that the assessment supported ongoing response evaluation for maintaining active outbreak control.
