Cerebrospinal Meningitis (CSM) cases in the Upper West Region have increased from 42 to 60, with the death toll now at 14.
Health authorities have raised concern about the rising fatalities, attributing them to misdiagnoses, delays in seeking treatment, and the high cost of medical care. In response, regional health officials are stepping up efforts to contain the outbreak. Plans under consideration include offering free treatment to affected patients and launching public awareness campaigns to encourage early medical intervention.
They emphasized that early diagnosis and timely treatment are essential in preventing further deaths.
Regional Health Director, Dr. Damien Punguyire, has linked the rising fatalities to initial misdiagnoses, as many cases are mistaken for malaria. This often results in inappropriate treatment, delaying the administration of proper care and increasing the risk of severe complications. Many patients only realize the seriousness of their condition when it is already too late.
To prevent more deaths, health officials have urged individuals experiencing prolonged fever, neck pain, or body aches to seek immediate medical attention. Those diagnosed with malaria are also advised to return to a health facility if their symptoms persist or worsen within 12 to 24 hours.
Preventive measures such as avoiding overcrowding and staying hydrated to keep the throat moist are also being emphasized. Health officials remain confident that with timely diagnosis and appropriate care, deaths from CSM can be avoided.