More on malaria in Ghana

We continue to shine a spotlight on malaria. It is the leading cause of morbidity in Ghana and  malaria prevention efforts must continue despite the current global crises. On World Malaria Day, the WHO urged sub-Saharan African countries to minimize disruptions to malaria prevention and treatment programmes. 

Today we look at some additional statistics on malaria from the Ghana Health Service (GHS) Facts and Figures 2018 report.

First quarter malaria statistics

The Ghana Health Service provided some sobering 2020 first quarter numbers on malaria morbidity and mortality in Ghana highlighting again the importance of malaria prevention and treatment efforts.

According to the statistics: 1,000,000 people tested positive for malaria in the first quarter out of which 21,201 were children under five years and 28,764 were pregnant women. At least 54 deaths from malaria have been recorded with 16 of the deaths among children under five years.

World Immunization Week cont'd

We earlier highlighted the progress made in immunization in Ghana and the inequalities that persist. Today we look at immunization rates for specific vaccines - BCG (tuberculosis), DPT (diphtheria, pertussis/whooping cough and tetanus), polio and measles.

World Day for Safety and Health at Work

Today, as we commemorate World Day for Safety and Health at Work we applaud frontline health staff all over the globe and others contributing to the fight against covid-19 such as scientists, contact tracers, inventors, policy-makers etc. We also commend other essential staff in sectors such as pharmaceuticals, finance, security, media and food supply who continue to deliver services despite the risks.