A significant drop in malaria cases has been recorded in the Sekyere East District, according to the District Health Director, Dr Justice Ofori Amoah.
Speaking at a 3-Day National Malaria Elimination Program; On-Site Diagnostic Refresher Training, Dr. Amoah revealed that malaria cases in children have decreased dramatically from 5,140 in 2022 to 1,502 as of July 2024.
“In 2022, 5,140 malaria cases in children were recorded. The cases dropped to 3993 in 2023 and as at July 2024, only 1,502 malaria cases in Sekeyere East District have been recorded. So if you look at the stats,it clearly shows that the cases have abruptly dropped.” He said.
Similarly, “In 2022, we recorded 774 malaria cases in Pregnant women. 726 cases were recorded in 2023 and as of July 2024, we recorded 541, a drop in cases.
In General OPD (both sexes), 20,369 malaria cases were recorded in 2022. In 2023, we recorded 369 cases and in 2024 as of July 6,682 were recorded.”
Dr. Amoah attributed the significant drop in malaria cases to the government’s sensitization programs, media campaigns, efforts of traditional leaders (Nananom), and the public’s cooperation.
“Malaria cases in Sekyere East have overwhelmingly dropped due to the government’s sensitization programs, media campaigns against malaria, efforts of Nananom and the great efforts of the public.”
He emphasized that the statistics clearly show an abrupt drop in cases, indicating that collective efforts can lead to the elimination of malaria in Ghana and Africa.
The Sekyere East District Health Director urged the public to continue sleeping under mosquito nets, using insecticides, and visiting health centers for regular checkups and treatments.
He expressed optimism that with sustained efforts, malaria can be eradicated, leading to improved health outcomes for women and children.
“If we all join forces together, sleep in mosquito nets, use insecticides and again visit various health centres for regular checkups and treatments, malaria could be eliminated abruptly in Ghana and Africa as a whole. In this case, women and children will attain good health.” Dr Amoah stated.
The 3-Day National Malaria Elimination Program On-Site Diagnostic Refresher Training program, which brought together 7 districts in the Ashanti Region, (Sekyere Cluster) aimed to enhance the skills of healthcare professionals in diagnosing and treating malaria.
Source: Oyerepafmonline.com/Joseph Marfo
