The alert, dated January 14, 2026, serves as a reminder of an earlier advisory issued in December 2025 and comes amid the ongoing dry and dusty season, which health authorities say significantly increases the risk of meningitis transmission.
According to the Ministry, meningitis is a serious and potentially life-threatening disease that causes inflammation of the membranes covering the brain and spinal cord. It can spread rapidly, especially in overcrowded and poorly ventilated environments, making early detection and prompt medical care critical to preventing severe complications or death.
Health authorities outlined common signs and symptoms of meningitis, including sudden high fever, severe headache, stiff neck or pain when bending the neck forward, nausea and vomiting, confusion, drowsiness, difficulty waking, and convulsions or seizures. In infants, symptoms may include a bulging fontanelle, persistent crying, and refusal to feed.
The Ministry identified children under five years, adolescents and young adults, elderly persons, people living in overcrowded conditions, and individuals with weakened immune systems as the most vulnerable groups.
As part of preventive measures, the public has been advised to avoid overcrowded and poorly ventilated spaces, practise good respiratory hygiene by covering the mouth when coughing or sneezing, wash hands regularly with soap and water, and ensure routine immunisations are up to date. The Ministry also encouraged frequent intake of fluids and early medical care at the onset of symptoms.
The statement stressed that anyone experiencing symptoms or suspecting a case of meningitis should immediately report to the nearest health facility, noting that early reporting and treatment save lives.
The Ministry of Health and the Ghana Health Service assured the public that surveillance systems have been strengthened nationwide and that health facilities remain on high alert to respond swiftly to any suspected cases.
The press release was signed by the Director-General of the Ghana Health Service, Dr Samuel Kaba Akoriyea.
Source: 3news.com