29/04/2026
🌍 World Malaria Day Outreach – UCC Hospital at OLA Community, Cape Coast
As part of activities to commemorate World Malaria Day 2026, the University of Cape Coast Hospital organized a community durbar at the OLA Community in Cape Coast to educate residents on malaria prevention and control, alongside a free health screening exercise.
Malaria remains a major public health challenge, particularly among children under five years and pregnant women. During the engagement, participants were educated on the causes, transmission, signs and symptoms of malaria, as well as effective prevention and treatment practices.
🦟 Key Messages Delivered:
- Malaria is transmitted through the bite of infected female Anopheles mosquitoes
- Early symptoms include fever, chills, headache, vomiting, and general body weakness
- Prompt testing and treatment at a health facility is crucial
🩺 Health Screening Conducted:
Community members were screened for:
- Malaria
- Blood sugar levels
- Blood pressure
- Body weight
Individuals diagnosed with malaria and hypertension were appropriately referred to health facilities for further management, treatment, and counselling.
✅ Prevention Tips:
- Sleep under insecticide-treated bed nets (ITNs)
- Eliminate stagnant water and clear surrounding bushes
- Cover water storage containers
- Use mosquito repellents and install window/door screens
👩👧 Special Advice:
- Pregnant women should attend antenatal care regularly for preventive treatment
- Parents and caregivers must ensure children sleep under treated nets
⚠️ Important Reminder:
Avoid self-medication and reliance on unverified herbal remedies. Always seek care from a qualified health facility.
The outreach also highlighted that mosquitoes transmit other diseases such as dengue, yellow fever, and chikungunya, reinforcing the need for sustained community action.
🤝 Together, we can prevent malaria and protect our communities.
