Ghana Health Service declares Swine flu over in Kumasi Academy 

The Ghana Health Service has declared the outbreak of H1N1 or Swine Flu in Kumasi Academy as over. 

This follows stringent measures instituted by the Service in collaboration with the World Health Organisation. 

Measures such as strict surveillance was instituted to help prevent and detect cases early and timely so as to respond to any future occurrences to mitigate negative impact.

This was contained in a statement issued by the Service in Accra.

The statement noted that the vaccination exercise which was conducted in the school was free of charge adding that the focal nature of the outbreak did not require nationwide vaccination campaign.  

It further recommends the public to observe general preventive measures which include cough and sneezing etiquette, personal hygiene, handwashing with soap and water and use of hand sanitizers.  

Individuals that experience symptoms of Influenza-like illness are requested to report immediately to the nearest health facility for the necessary investigations and treatment.

In a related development, the Ministry of Health together with the Ghana Health Service have initiated investigations into the allegations that the Vaccination for Influenza-A H1N1 and Meningitis is being offered for sale at some health facilities. 

Reports emerged last week that the H1N1 and Meningitis vaccines are being offered for sale to students and parents in some public health facilities across the country.

The Service in a statement said the vaccines are not for sale adding that the H1N1 vaccination exercise was conducted mainly for and  restricted to the targeted school population and selected frontline health workers and was done free of  charge.

The service further clarified that no H1N1 vaccines or Meningitis vaccines have been given to any public health facility to be given to any other student. 

In view of this, Regional and District Directors of Health Services have been directed to investigate any complain of sale of vaccines that comes to their desk whether from the media or from a parent.  

It adds that if any parent or journalist has proof of vaccines being sold, he or she should contact any of the Regional or District Director of Health Service in his area with the evidence for further investigation and  application of necessary sanctions and disciplinary measures to the culprits.

GBCONLINE
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