Warning: "Severe harmattan could lead to CSM outbreak"

The current Harmattan weather is not just affecting air travels, but could soon lead to a possible outbreak of cerebrospinal meningitis (CSM) in the Northern part of Ghana.

CSM infects the coverings of the brain, and is common in the Northern, Upper East and Upper West regions.

It usually occurs in epidemic proportions.

The Meteorological Agency of Ghana, Monday, warned that the severe harmattan weather could possibly lead to several health issues including CSM.

Muller Siameh, Principal Meteo Officer, has therefore charged health personnel to be on the alert to contain the contagious disease in case it breaks out.

“This disease called CSM [mostly] affects people in the North, so when it gets to this time, people in the North become very alert and the medical team also becomes alert and when they see signs [of CSM] they start vaccinating.

“Other problems too are that we get dryness of the skin and people bleed from the nose.”

Health officials are, however, yet to confirm any report of an outbreak.