The Eastern Regional Health Directorate of the Ghana Health Service (GHS) has disclosed that the number of Dengue Fever cases in the region has risen to 11, following the confirmation of two additional cases.
This announcement comes shortly after the GHS declared an outbreak of clinical malaria, also known as Dengue Fever, in several districts of the Eastern Region on July 14.
Initially, the outbreak was recorded in three districts and municipalities. However, the disease has now spread to five districts, namely Birim Central, Birim North, Akyemansa, Birim South, and Achiase.
During a news conference held in the regional capital, Koforidua, Dr. Winfred Ofosu, the Regional Director of Health Services, revealed the latest figures and warned that the number of confirmed cases might increase.
The directorate is currently awaiting the results of 57 additional samples sent to the Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research (NMIMR).
“A total of 11 cases have been confirmed by the Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research. The region is expecting feedback from 57 more samples that are being worked on. The region is currently managing 103 suspected cases. So, I am sure many of you have the information that, initially, it was 9. Some tests were done, and two turned out to be positive,” Dr. Ofosu stated.
The GHS had earlier confirmed nine cases of Dengue Fever after samples were tested at NMIMR. The confirmation of two more cases has raised concerns among health officials and residents alike.
Dr. Ofosu assured the public that the Ghana Health Service is fully prepared to combat the disease.
He urged residents in the affected districts to seek medical attention at the nearest health facilities if they exhibit symptoms of Dengue Fever, which include high fever, severe headache, pain behind the eyes, joint and muscle pain, rash, and mild bleeding.
The Eastern Regional Health Directorate is intensifying its efforts to manage the situation and prevent further spread of the disease.
Health officials are conducting public awareness campaigns to educate people about the symptoms of Dengue Fever and the importance of seeking prompt medical care.
As the region awaits the results of the 57 additional samples, health authorities remain vigilant and committed to ensuring the health and safety of all residents.
The public is encouraged to stay informed and follow the guidance provided by health officials to mitigate the impact of the Dengue Fever outbreak.