A growing outbreak of cerebrospinal meningitis (CSM) in the Upper West Region of Ghana has health officials sounding the alarm as the number of cases and fatalities continues to rise. As of the latest reports, 60 people have been infected, with 14 succumbing to the disease.
But what is CSM?
Cerebrospinal meningitis (CSM) is an infection of the lining covering the brain and spinal cord (the meninges) caused by different types of germs. However, it is Neisseria Meningitis (Nm) that at times causes large epidemics.
Regional Health Director, Dr. Damien Punguyire, attributes the increasing fatalities to misdiagnoses and delays in seeking proper treatment. Many cases are initially mistaken for malaria, leading to improper treatments and a delay in administering the correct care. By the time patients realize their condition is deteriorating, it is often too late.
Dr. Punguyire emphasizes the importance of early intervention, advising individuals diagnosed with malaria to seek further medical attention if symptoms persist or worsen within 12 to 24 hours. He also stresses the need for preventive measures, such as avoiding overcrowding, drinking plenty of water to keep the throat moist, and seeking medical attention immediately if symptoms arise.
In response to the outbreak, authorities are ramping up efforts to contain the spread of the disease, with a focus on early medical intervention and consideration of free treatment for affected patients. With prompt action and awareness, health officials hope to curb the outbreak and prevent further deaths.
Ruth Abla ADJORLOLO
