Dr. Samuel Kaba Akoriyea Director-General of the Ghana Health Service (GHS), visited the Upper West Region on Friday February 20, to evaluate meningitis preparedness amid recent cases, offering technical support and reassurance to health officials and residents.
The one-day working visit followed reports of meningitis in the area, part of a broader tour of affected regions to bolster surveillance and response. Accompanied by GHS headquarters directors from Public Health, Institutional Care, and Health Promotion divisions, Dr. Akoriyea aimed to gather firsthand data and assess regional capabilities.
At the Upper West Regional Health Directorate, Regional Director Dr. Josephat Nyuzaghl briefed the team, reporting 34 suspected meningitis cases this year, including seven confirmed and five deaths. “The situation is better than last year,” Dr. Nyuzaghl said, noting no outbreak has been declared. He highlighted ongoing measures: intensified surveillance, effective case management, and enhanced risk communication.
Dr. Akoriyea praised the region’s proactive stance but urged greater community sensitization for early symptom reporting. “Treatment for meningitis is free,” he emphasized. “Residents should seek care at the nearest facility immediately.”
The director-general toured key facilities, including Nadowli-Kaleo District Hospital, Wa Municipal Hospital, and Upper West Regional Hospital. He inspected laboratories, wards, and interacted with medical staff to gauge readiness.
Health workers welcomed the visit as a morale boost. “It’s encouraging to have the Director-General’s support on the ground,” one official said.
Ghana has battled seasonal meningitis outbreaks, particularly in the north, with vaccination drives and surveillance key to containment.
