Yellow fever outbreak kills seven in Sissala East

Seven people have died following a confirmed outbreak of Yellow Fever in the Sissala East Municipality of the Upper West Region, with children and young people reportedly among the worst affected.

The outbreak has heightened concern in several communities where multiple deaths have been recorded within a relatively short period, prompting health authorities to intensify efforts to contain the disease.

The Sissala East Health Directorate has confirmed the outbreak and is monitoring the situation as health officials work to identify suspected cases, trace possible contacts and prevent further transmission.

A Fulani chief in one of the affected communities said the situation had become particularly worrying because of the number of children who have reportedly lost their lives.

According to the chief, residents initially suspected that an unfamiliar or emerging disease could be responsible after several children became sick and died.

He said the first known case was taken to a hospital after developing severe symptoms but died shortly afterwards.

“Children are indeed dying here. The first case was reported at the hospital, and the child was referred to the hospital, but he unfortunately died two days later, blood coming out of his nostrils and mouth.”

The chief said the deaths continued to rise, increasing anxiety among residents and compelling him to raise the issue with health authorities.

He recalled that he became particularly concerned after the death toll reached four and urged officials to investigate the cause.

“When the number of deaths got to four, I told them it may be a new disease. They promised to check it and report it to their superiors.”

Yellow Fever is a viral disease primarily transmitted through the bites of infected mosquitoes. It can cause symptoms including fever, headache, muscle pain, nausea and vomiting.

In severe cases, the disease can lead to jaundice, bleeding and organ failure, making early detection and response critical in affected communities.