The Ghana Health Service (GHS) has launched a five-day yellow fever vaccination campaign targeting about 244,869 people in three districts of the Upper West Region after an outbreak.
The exercise, which began on Wednesday, October 14, is expected to end on Sunday, October 18, 2026.
The campaign covers Wa West, Sissala East, and Sissala West districts and aims to contain the outbreak, prevent further spread, and protect residents aged 9 months to 60 years.
The GHS has deployed health workers to health facilities and temporary vaccination centres at selected public places, including markets, lorry stations, churches, mosques and schools.
Mobile teams are also visiting communities, towns and villages to reach eligible people who may find it difficult to access the fixed vaccination centres.
The Service is urging residents in the three districts to take advantage of the exercise, stressing that high vaccination coverage is important to controlling the outbreak.
People vaccinated during the campaign will receive yellow vaccination cards as proof of immunisation. Residents have been advised to keep the cards safely, as they may be needed for health services, school enrolment or travel.
Yellow fever is a viral disease transmitted through the bites of infected mosquitoes. Symptoms include fever, headache, muscle pain, nausea and vomiting. Severe cases can lead to jaundice, bleeding, organ failure and death.
Vaccination remains the most effective way to prevent the disease. The World Health Organisation says a single dose provides long-lasting protection for most people and is sufficient for routine prevention.
The GHS is therefore encouraging eligible residents in Wa West, Sissala East and Sissala West to get vaccinated to protect themselves, their families and their communities.
