Dengue Fever Outbreak in Eastern Ghana Expands; 11 Confirmed Cases, More Under Investigation

This is a situation that requires immediate attention and action.

The Eastern Regional Health Directorate of the Ghana Health Service has reported an escalation in Dengue Fever cases, with two additional instances confirmed, bringing the total to 11. Initially identified in three districts, the outbreak has now spread to five regional districts.

Ghana Health Service officials announced the outbreak on July 14, citing a surge in clinical malaria cases identified as Dengue Fever across select districts of the Eastern Region. Confirmatory tests conducted at the Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research have verified nine instances.

Addressing a press conference in Koforidua, Dr Winfred Ofosu, Regional Director of Health Services, disclosed that the number of confirmed cases is expected to rise significantly, pending results from 57 additional samples currently under examination at the Institute. This potential increase underscores the need for heightened vigilance and preparedness.

“As of now, we have 11 confirmed cases from Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research. We are awaiting results from 57 other samples currently being processed,” Dr Ofosu stated. “Currently, the region is managing 103 suspected cases, reflecting an increase from the initial nine cases that were initially confirmed.”

Dr Ofosu assured the public that the Ghana Health Service was prepared to address the outbreak effectively. He emphasized the role of healthcare professionals in managing the outbreak, which should reassure the audience of their competence and dedication.