6 children die from rabies in 9 months – Korle Bu

Statistics from the Korle Bu Teaching Hospital’s Child Health Department indicates six children have died from rabies between January and September 2015.

The statistics indicates in 2013 the hospital recorded 3 cases while 4 cases were also recorded in 2014.

Rabies is an infectious viral disease that is almost always fatal following the onset of clinical signs.

According to the World Health Organisation, in more than 99% of human cases, the virus is transmitted by domestic dogs. Rabies affects domestic and wild animals and is spread to people through bites or scratches, usually via saliva.

Resident Doctor at the Korle Bu Teaching Hospital’s Child Health Department, Dr. Hilda Mantebea-Boye, told Adom News rabies attacks is on the rise and urged parents to report any case of rabies-related diseases to the nearest hospitals for treatment.

“The menace is so disturbing and it’s about time the city authorities and the veterinary department intensify public education,” Dr. Hilda Mantebea-Boye said.
She said other stakeholders must also collaborate with the various health facilities to prevent further increase in the numbers of the viral infection.

She also added that the authorities must pick up stray dogs on city streets to check rabies attacks.

Dr. Mantebea-Boye also advised doctors and nurses at clinics in rural areas to contact experts from bigger hospitals when a suspected rabid case is brought to them to prevent people from losing their lives.

Meanwhile, Director of Public Health, Ghana Health Services (GHS), Dr. Badu Sarkodie, says the health service, the Veterinary Services Directorate and other stakeholders are educating Ghanaians about the disease.