At least seven people have died in the Sissala East Municipality of the Upper West Region after a confirmed Yellow Fever outbreak. The Municipal Health Directorate has verified the cases, which are concentrated in the municipality.
Residents report that most of those affected are children and young people aged zero to 25, sparking concern over the spread and severity of the disease. Anxiety has risen in communities where the deaths have been recorded.
The Fulani chief of one of the hardest-hit communities described the situation as extremely disturbing, noting that several children had died under circumstances that initially raised fears of a new disease. He said the first reported case involved a child who was taken to the hospital, referred for further treatment, and died two days later with blood coming out of his nostrils and mouth.
After four deaths were recorded, the chief contacted health officials and urged an investigation, warning that it could be a new disease. Officials promised to check it and report to their superiors, but more children continued to die, prompting the chief to bring the matter to the Tumu Traditional Council.
Health authorities are currently investigating the outbreak and urging the public to seek immediate medical attention if symptoms appear. The situation remains fluid, and updates will follow as more information becomes available.
