– The Ministry of Health (MoH) and the Ghana Health Service (GHS) have urged the public, particularly residents in the meningitis belt, to remain vigilant during the dry season.
The reminder follows a public notice issued on December 1, 2025, warning of an increased risk of meningitis outbreaks due to prevailing weather conditions and overcrowded living environments.
A statement copied to the Ghana News Agency said meningitis is a serious and potentially life-threatening disease that causes inflammation of the membranes covering the brain and spinal cord.
It spreads rapidly, especially in crowded or poorly ventilated spaces, and requires early detection and prompt medical attention to prevent severe complications or death.
The statement advised the public to watch for symptoms including sudden high fever, severe headache, stiff neck or pain when bending the neck forward, nausea and vomiting, confusion, drowsiness or difficulty walking, and convulsions or seizures.
In infants, symptoms may include a bulging fontanelle, persistent crying, and refusal to feed.
Health authorities noted that those most at risk include children under five years, adolescents and young adults, the elderly, people living in overcrowded conditions, and individuals with weakened immune systems.
The statement encouraged the public to avoid overcrowded and poorly ventilated spaces, practise good respiratory hygiene such as covering the mouth when coughing or sneezing, and wash hands regularly with soap and water.
It also emphasized adequate hydration and up-to-date routine immunisations, especially for children under five.
The Ministry urged individuals to seek early medical care when symptoms appeared, stressing that early reporting and treatment are critical to saving lives.
“Any person experiencing symptoms or suspecting a case of meningitis is advised to report immediately to the nearest health facility,” it added.
The MoH and GHS assured the public that disease surveillance systems had been strengthened nationwide and that health facilities were on high alert to respond promptly to suspected cases.
GNA
Edited by Kenneth Sackey
15 Jan. 2026
