Health authorities in the Ashanti Region are deeply concerned by the significant rise in measles and rubella cases, which have increased by over 100 percent in the last two years.
Despite intensified efforts by officials to control the spread, the numbers continue to grow. In 2021, only four cases were recorded, escalating to 24 in 2022 and 79 in 2023.
As of 2024, a worrying 119 cases have been reported.
Dr. Fred Adomako Boateng, the incoming Director of the Ghana Health Service in the Ashanti Region, attributed this rise to gaps in vaccine coverage.
He made this statement at the launch of a supplementary measles and rubella vaccination campaign, set to run from October 2 to October 6, 2024.
“As the number of unvaccinated children increases, the risk of outbreaks becomes very high. If you recall, last year we saw a surge in measles cases, especially in the northern regions and even here. The complications of measles and rubella are severe and costly to treat,” he said.
“You never know who may be at risk, and I’m sure no parent wants their child to suffer from blindness or deafness. This is an opportunity to vaccinate your child against measles and rubella,” he added.
SOURCE: Obikyere Abigail Seyram
