, has outlined some recommendations to control the outbreak of Cerebrospinal meningitis (CSM){kind=link}
The Ghana Association of Medical Laboratory Scientists (GAMLs), has outlined some recommendations to control the outbreak of Cerebrospinal meningitis (CSM) in parts of the Northern Region of Ghana.
Cerebrospinal meningitis is a critical condition characterized by inflammation of the meninges—the protective membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord. If not promptly diagnosed and treated, CSM can lead to severe complications, including permanent neurological damage and death.
To help control the spread of CSM, GAMLS has recommended the following measures:
1. Enhanced Surveillance: Strengthening disease surveillance systems is essential for early detection, monitoring, and rapid response to CSM outbreaks.
2. Scaling Up Laboratory Testing: Prompt and accurate laboratory testing is crucial for diagnosing CSM. We call on healthcare facilities to prioritize laboratory diagnostics and urge relevant authorities to ensure the provision of necessary logistics and resources to laboratories, particularly in the affected regions.
3. Strict Infection Prevention and Control (IPC): Adherence to robust IPC protocols within healthcare settings is key to preventing the transmission of CSM among patients and healthcare workers.
4. Public Education and Awareness: GAMLS urges the government, public health institutions, and other stakeholders to intensify public health education campaigns focused on CSM prevention, early recognition of symptoms, and the importance of seeking timely medical attention.
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In a statement, the GAMLS underscored the vital role of medical laboratory testing in the early detection, accurate diagnosis, and effective management of CSM.
GMLS assured that its dedicated members across the country remain committed to delivering reliable and timely laboratory results to support clinical decision-making and patient care.
Meanwhile, GAMLS is also advocating for the strengthening and advancement of microbiological laboratory capacities nationwide.
It stated that enhancing laboratory infrastructure and capabilities will improve outbreak detection, surveillance, and response efforts, not only for CSM but also for other emerging infectious diseases.
“We reaffirm our commitment to supporting the national response to this outbreak and call on all stakeholders to collaborate effectively to mitigate the spread of cerebrospinal meningitis in Ghana. Together, we can safeguard the health and well-being of our communities,” GMLS added.
Ghana| Atinkaonline.com| Porcia Oforiwaa