CSM deaths in U/W rise to 16 –SpeakerBagbin donates medicines to combat disease

The Upper West Region is experiencing an outbreak of Cerebrospinal Meningitis (CSM) with 129 suspected cases so far reported. Out of the number, 22 have been confirmed whilst 16 have lost their lives.

According to health authorities in the region, thirteen of the casualties were due to Streptococcus Pneumonia Meningitis and two are awaiting investigation.

Currently, there are 29 patients receiving treatment at various health centres, with three in a critical state.

Since the number of cases of Cerebrospinal Meningitis in the area has increased, the government has sent medical supplies to the area so that those who have the illness can receive free treatment.

The Speaker of Parliament, Alban S.K. Bagbin has contributed GH¢300,000 worth of medical supplies to help limit the spread of CSM, in order to promote the free medical care for patients.

The donated items include; 8,400 doses of Ceftriaxone injection, 1,600 doses of Reception injection, 2,100 units of Ringers Lactate Injection, 2,100 units of Normal Saline, 12 packs of Spinal Needles and 300 doses of Dexamethasone.

Addressing health practitioners during the handing over of the medical items in Wa, the Speaker of Parliament re-emphasised the importance of personal health, stating “It’s your wealth, it’s your health. Any other thing is not yours.”

The Speaker is supporting the Upper West Caucus of MPs in Parliament to address the epidemic. The Upper West Regional Director of Health Services, Dr. Damien Punguyire, noted that all the districts, except Sissala West and Wa East, have been hit, with the most recent being the Lawra District.

To him, early detection remains key since patients who are treated early have a good survival rate.

“With all the support coming, first from the Minister of Health and now from the Right Honorable Speaker, we’re going to ensure that people do not die,” he assured.

Dr. Punguyire highlighted that initial deaths were largely due to delays in seeking treatment, particularly among individuals without active health insurance.

Under Ghana Health Service directives, treatments for all meningitis cases are now free of charge.

Further, health officials have stepped up the public awareness campaigns and training for case management among health professionals.

Regional Minister, Mr Charles Lwanga Puozuing, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to addressing the crisis.

Following an emergency session on February 10, 2025 he spearheaded the sensitisation campaign on Meningitis, assessing the crucial role publicity plays in preventing further fatalities.

The National Lottery Authority responded to a call for funds by donating GH¢100,000 towards the cost of transporting medical equipment and outreach efforts.

The Minister called for more collaboration with the Speaker of parliament saying, “I know that during the period, as a Member of Parliament and before his assumption of office as Speaker, he has done his best to help the Upper West Region.

“With his son now serving as Regional Minister, I will be forever at his doorstep begging for more help,” he said.

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