The Keta Municipal Health Directorate in the Volta Region has announced a sharp rise in mumps cases, raising alarm among residents. The viral infection has spread swiftly across the municipality, with approximately 50 individuals affected in the Keta Township.
According to Madam Tsoeke Dzorgbenyui Seanefu, a nurse at the Directorate, mumps is a highly contagious illness that targets the salivary glands.
She attributed the outbreak to poor hygiene practices and overcrowded living conditions. Madam Seanefu noted that common symptoms include swelling of the parotid glands, fever, headaches, muscle pain, and loss of appetite. She further cautioned that in severe cases, complications such as meningitis or orchitis may develop.
“The causes of mumps include the mumps virus, which spreads through respiratory droplets, contact with infected saliva, and contaminated surfaces,” she said. Madam Seanefu emphasised that mumps spreads through direct contact with an infected person’s saliva or respiratory droplets, sharing food, drinks, or utensils, and touching contaminated surfaces.
She emphasised that the groups most vulnerable to mumps include unvaccinated children and adults, individuals living in overcrowded environments, and those with weakened immune systems. The disease can lead to serious complications such as meningitis (inflammation of the protective membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord), orchitis (inflammation of the testicles), and oophoritis (inflammation of the ovaries).
To curb the spread, she urged residents to seek vaccination at hospitals or nearby health centres, maintain proper hygiene by washing hands frequently under running water, avoid sharing food, drinks, or utensils, and limit contact with infected persons. She urged residents to prioritise hygiene and seek medical attention early if symptoms persist.
She noted that mumps cases are treatable with rest, hydration, and pain management, but medical attention is crucial to prevent complications. The Keta Municipal Health Directorate is closely monitoring the situation and working to contain the outbreak through public education on mumps, its treatment, and vaccination services for affected individuals.
Source: GNA
