Ghana Records 9 Cases of Dengue Fever
Ghana has recorded nine cases of Dengue Fever- a viral infection that spreads from mosquitoes to people- the country’s Health Service announced over the weekend.
These cases initially thought to be malaria, were recorded in the Eastern Region and confirmed by the Noguchi Memorial Institute in Accra.
“The National Surveillance System detected unusual cases of malaria-like illness in some districts of the Eastern Region. These cases were not responding to recommended antimalarial treatment regimens, and were, therefore, managed as acute febrile illness. Samples from patients were sent to the Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research (NMIMR) for testing.”
The cases are being managed, the GHS said in its statement, adding that a team from the national level made up of Entomologists and Epidemiologists have joined the regional team to undertake a detailed outbreak investigation.
Measures
To contain the outbreak, the GHS said a National Emergency Operation Centre (EOC) meeting has been held while alerts have been sent to all Regions and Districts to enhance surveillance for early detection, to sensitize health staff and provide public awareness.
Additionally, it said enhanced surveillance has been initiated with public education on signs and symptoms and prevention ongoing.
Also, entomological assessment in the affected areas is being undertaken.
About Dengue
According to the Service, dengue which can be fatal, does not often show any symptoms; however, when it does, common symptoms include high fever, headache, body aches, nausea, and rash.
In some cases, infected persons experience bleeding and require hospital care.
It will take between one to two weeks for infected persons to get better, it added.
Prevention
Ghanaians have been advised to use insecticide-treated mosquito nets – to protect babies, old people and others who may rest during the day.
The Service is also advising the public to cover water from coolers, tanks, barrels, drums, buckets etc and remove all objects that have collected water from the house.
Most importantly, the GHS has cautioned against self-medication.
