Wa, Upper West Region, March 17, – The Upper West Regional Director of Health Services, Dr. Josephat Nyuzaghl, has disclosed that the region has recorded eleven confirmed meningitis cases and six deaths as of week 10 of 2026.
Out of 57 suspected cases reported across the region, all confirmed cases were treated promptly, and no district has experienced an outbreak so far this year, Dr. Nyuzaghl assured during the 2025 Upper West Regional Health Sector Performance Review in Wa on Tuesday.
“Let me reassure the public that in 2026, no district has experienced an outbreak of meningitis,” he said.
The Health Director noted that surveillance systems have been intensified to detect and respond swiftly to suspected cases. Treatment for meningitis in the region remains free of charge, and he urged residents to seek early medical attention if symptoms appear.
Dr. Nyuzaghl recalled the 2025 meningitis outbreak, which saw 269 suspected cases, 36 confirmed cases, and 18 deaths. He credited coordinated interventions by the Ghana Health Service, Regional Health Directorate, stakeholders, and media sensitisation for controlling last year’s outbreak.
He also highlighted health workforce challenges, including high attrition and reluctance of personnel to accept postings in the region.
“The region lost 190 staff in 2024 and 194 in 2025 due to inter-regional postings. Of 25 medical officers posted in 2025, none reported initially; however, three have since reported in 2026,” he noted.
Dr. Nyuzaghl called for stronger collaboration among stakeholders to address staffing gaps and sustain effective health services in the region.
GHBUSS
March 17, 2026
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