Keta: The Keta Municipal Health Directorate in the Volta Region has reported a surge in mumps cases, sparking concerns among residents in the area. The disease, caused by a viral infection, has spread rapidly in the Municipality, with about 50 persons reportedly affected in the Keta township.
According to Ghana News Agency, Madam Tsoeke Dzorgbenyui Seanefu, a nurse at the Keta Municipal Health Directorate, disclosed that mumps is a highly contagious disease that affects the salivary glands and presents symptoms such as facial swelling, fever, and headache. She linked the outbreak to poor hygiene and overcrowding. She explained that the mumps virus spreads through respiratory droplets, contact with infected saliva, and contaminated surfaces.
She described symptoms of mumps as swelling of the parotid glands, fever, headache, muscle aches, and loss of appetite, with possible complications such as meningitis or orchitis. Madam Seanefu emphasized that the virus spreads through direct contact with an infected person's saliva or respiratory droplets, sharing food, drinks, or utensils, and touching contaminated surfaces.
Those at highest risk include unvaccinated children and adults, people in crowded areas, and individuals with weakened immune systems. The effects of mumps can lead to severe complications, including meningitis, orchitis, and oophoritis.
For prevention, she advised residents to seek vaccination (MMR vaccine), maintain good hygiene by washing hands regularly, avoid sharing food, drinks, or utensils, and stay away from infected individuals. Early medical attention is crucial if symptoms persist, as mumps cases are treatable with rest, hydration, and pain management.
The Keta Municipal Health Directorate is actively monitoring the situation and working to contain the outbreak through public education on mumps, its treatment, and providing vaccination services for affected individuals.