The Ghana Association of Medical Laboratory Scientists (GAMLS) has expressed serious concerns regarding a recent outbreak of cerebrospinal meningitis (CSM) in parts of Northern Ghana.

As frontline professionals in disease detection and management, GAMLS highlighted the essential role of laboratory testing in curbing the spread of this highly infectious and life-threatening disease. CSM causes inflammation of the meninges, the protective membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord. If not promptly diagnosed and treated, it can lead to severe complications, including neurological damage and death.

In response to the outbreak, GAMLS has proposed a series of measures aimed at combating the disease. These include enhanced disease surveillance, scaling up laboratory testing, implementing strict infection prevention protocols, and intensifying public health education.

In a statement released on February 4, 2025, the association urged healthcare facilities to prioritize laboratory diagnostics and called on authorities to provide the necessary logistics and resources for laboratories, particularly in the affected regions.

Additionally, GAMLS advocated for the strengthening of microbiological laboratory capacities across the nation, emphasizing that improved infrastructure and capabilities would enhance outbreak detection and response efforts for CSM and other emerging infectious diseases.

The association reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the national response to the outbreak and urged all stakeholders, including the government and public health institutions, to collaborate in mitigating the spread of CSM in Ghana.

With the ongoing outbreak posing a significant public health risk, GAMLS encourages the public to stay informed, recognize early symptoms, and seek medical attention promptly. “Together, we can safeguard the health and well-being of our communities,” the association concluded.