As Ghana enters its dry season, health officials are bracing for a potential outbreak of Cerebrospinal Meningitis (CSM) in the northern regions, which are particularly vulnerable due to the climate. Dr. Franklyn Asiedu-Bekoe, the Director of Public Health at the Ghana Health Service (GHS), has warned the public to stay vigilant and take precautionary measures against the disease.
CSM, a severe infection affecting the membranes around the brain and spinal cord, is most common in areas that experience hot, dry weather, such as parts of Ghana. The disease remains a significant public health challenge, with up to 10% of confirmed cases leading to mortality each year. Dr.
Asiedu-Bekoe emphasized the importance of maintaining hydration during this time, urging the public to drink plenty of water and keep their bodies moisturized. “We are on high alert for any possible outbreaks as we move into the dry season,” Dr. Asiedu-Bekoe said.
“The general public is encouraged to take in a lot of water and maintain proper body moisture in this dry weather condition, as the country remains prone to experiencing seasonal cerebrospinal meningitis outbreaks from this month.” The northern parts of Ghana are within the meningitis belt, a region that spans across sub-Saharan Africa, making its residents particularly susceptible to the infection. Health authorities are closely monitoring the situation, particularly as the months of January, February, and March typically see the highest incide.
