LETS ERADICATE PNEUMOCOCAL MENINGITIS

The number of Pneumococal Meningitis cases keep increasing since it outbreak in the Brong Ahafo Region in January 7, 2016.  As at January 25, the recorded cases have crossed 100 cases mark and are currently pegged at 139 cases with death arising from 28 to 33. So what is accounting to these increases in the number Pneumococal Meningitis cases even though the Health Ministry says it has the outbreak of the disease under control.

For the start, let us educate ourselves about Pneumococal Meningitis. It is an inflammation of the lining of the brain and spinal cord. Causes of the disease include bacterial, viral, parasites and even chemicals.

Transmission or spread of meningitis is by direct contact including respiratory droplets from nose and throat of infected persons or carriers.

One may ask how may I get to know I have Pneumococal Meningitis? Well look out for the following signs and symptoms;

·         Onset of severe headache

·         Fever

·         Vomiting

·         Neck stiffness

·         Photophobia(dislike for light)

Others symptoms include lethargy, coma and convulsions. In babies there may be bulging of the anterior fontanelle (soft part of the bread).

The Ministry of Health in effort to control the outbreak of the disease has taken some measures including dispatching logistics such as laboratory test kits, gloves etc to affected areas, public education is ongoing  and adequate stock of antibiotics has been taken to affected districts.

In as much as the Health and other stakeholders in the health sector are doing their best to bring the outbreak of the disease under control, we the general public has a role to play.

·         People with symptoms and signs suggestive of meningitis (fever, headache, neck stiffers) should report immediately to the hospital.

·         Avoid overcrowding, prevent dryness of the throat by drinking, and prevent cough and sneezing etiquettes.

·         Other preventive measures include avoiding mosquito bite, sleeping insecticide treated bed nets, environmental cleanliness and preventing stagnation of water in tins and tyres.

Together with the Ministry of Health and other stakeholders in the health sector, the outbreak of Pneumococal meningitis can be controlled and even eradicated.