GHS Begins Registration for ITN Distribution as Malaria Cases Reach 900,000

The Ashanti Regional Directorate of the Ghana Health Service (GHS) is raising alarm over the sharp rise in malaria cases in the Ashanti Region.

This concern coincides with the commencement of registration for a large-scale distribution of long-lasting insecticide-treated nets (ITNs) in the region.

In 2023, Outpatient Departments in the region reported a staggering 900,000 cases of malaria, marking a significant increase from the previous year’s figure of 800,000 cases.

Speaking to the press ahead of the registration campaign, Dr. Emmanuel Tenkorang, the Ashanti Regional Director of Health, emphasized the strain on healthcare facilities and the substantial financial burden this situation imposes on the country.

“Malaria constitutes one of the most pressing socio-economic challenges in this region, the country, and Africa. It significantly impacts our Outpatient Department attendance,” he remarked.

Dr. Tenkorang highlighted the financial implications, stating, “Malaria accounts for a substantial portion of our insurance payments. Any effort to combat malaria will result in significant cost savings for the nation. That’s why the country has adopted the National Malaria Elimination Program to reduce malaria-related illness and death, particularly among children under five and pregnant women.”

The registration drive, running from June 7th to June 11th, aims to enroll households in 41 districts of the Ashanti Region, excluding Obuasi and Obuasi East, where a special indoor residual spraying campaign against malaria is underway.

Dr. Tenkorang urged the public to use the nets solely for protection against mosquito bites, expressing concern over misuse. “It’s disheartening to see mosquito nets being repurposed for unauthorized uses, such as garden fencing or refuse covers,” he lamented.

He cautioned, “This initiative is funded by partners, and misuse reflects poorly on the country’s commitment to malaria control efforts.”

Dr. Tenkorang proposed the need for enforceable legislation or policy directives to hold individuals accountable for improper net usage.

The mass distribution initiative, part of Ghana’s National Malaria Elimination Program, aims to curb malaria transmission by providing widespread protection against mosquito bites.

It seeks to reduce malaria-related illness and death, as well as the economic burden of malaria treatment in Ghana.

The GHS aims to bolster productivity and socio-economic development by achieving its malaria elimination objectives among the population.