The Upper West Region has recorded 15 suspected meningitis cases so far in the ongoing 2025–2026 meningitis season, with four infections confirmed through laboratory testing and two deaths reported, health authorities have said.
Addressing the media on Tuesday, 10 February, the Upper West Regional Director of Health Services, Dr Josephat Nyuzaghl, said the situation remains relatively calm compared to last year’s outbreak, which saw significantly higher infections and fatalities.
According to him, the region recorded 269 suspected cases during the previous season, of which 36 were confirmed and 18 deaths recorded, resulting in a case fatality rate of about 6.7 percent — below the World Health Organisation’s recommended maximum threshold of 10 percent.
Dr Nyuzaghl noted that most of last year’s infections were caused by Streptococcus pneumoniae, largely affecting young people between the ages of 11 and 20, with the Nadowli and Nandom districts hardest hit.
“The 2025–2026 meningitis season started around the last week of October and is expected to run until April. Compared to last year, we are seeing fewer cases and fewer fatalities, which shows that our preparedness measures are making a difference,” he said.
He said the regional health directorate has intensified disease surveillance, improved access to treatment and strengthened risk communication efforts to prevent further spread.
Health officials are also working closely with community leaders and the media to educate residents on the early symptoms of meningitis — including fever, severe headache, neck stiffness and vomiting — and the need to seek prompt medical care.
Dr Nyuzaghl assured residents that the region’s health system remains on high alert and ready to respond swiftly to any new cases.
“Early detection, rapid treatment and public awareness are critical in controlling meningitis outbreaks,” he stressed.
Meningitis cases typically rise in Ghana’s northern regions during the dry season due to heat, dust and overcrowded living conditions, which create favourable conditions for the spread of the infection.
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