Ringworm Outbreak Triggers Emergency Health Response in Abutoase Schools

By Christian Ahodie Yaw

A ringworm outbreak in parts of Abutoase in the Biakoye District of the Oti Region has prompted an emergency public health response, following a surge in infections among schoolchildren in the area.

The outbreak, which has affected several basic schools—particularly in CK Korfe, an overbank community—has raised alarm among parents, teachers, and health authorities due to the highly contagious nature of the disease, especially among children.

In response, the Member of Parliament for the Biakoye Constituency, Jean-Marie Formadi in collaboration with the Biakoye District Health Directorate and the District Assembly, embarked on a sensitization and treatment exercise in affected schools and communities.

The intervention coincided with World Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTD) Awareness Day, a global observance aimed at drawing attention to preventable and treatable diseases that disproportionately affect vulnerable populations.

Mass Sensitisation and Treatment Exercise

During visits to CK Korfe and surrounding communities, several pupils were found with visible symptoms of ringworm, including patches on the scalp and skin—sparking concerns about the potential for rapid spread within schools and households.

Addressing the media, MP Jean Marie said she could not sit idle while the health and wellbeing of children in her constituency were threatened. She announced that her office had sponsored treatment medicines to ensure all affected pupils received immediate care.

“We cannot allow this disease to spread further among our children. Early treatment and education are key, and that is why we have stepped in to support the health team,” she said.

Ringworm is a common fungal infection that spreads through direct skin contact or the sharing of personal items such as combs, hats, clothing, and bedding. While not usually life-threatening, untreated infections in children can lead to discomfort, stigma, and recurrent infections.

Health Directorate Explains Purpose of Exercises

The Biakoye District Health Director, Rita Ama Wurapa, explained that the exercise was aimed at both treatment and prevention. Health workers used the opportunity to educate pupils, teachers, and community members on personal hygiene, early detection, and measures to prevent reinfection.

“We are focusing on awareness, early treatment, and behaviour change to stop the spread. Ringworm is preventable, and with the right practices, we can protect our schools and communities,” she noted.

Health officers also administered on-the-spot treatment to affected pupils to curb further transmission.

Assembly Pledges Support

The District Chief Executive the area Eric Opong described the situation as serious and assured residents of the Assembly’s full support for health workers to prevent any escalation of the outbreak.

“We cannot wait for the situation to worsen. The Assembly will continue to support health interventions to ensure the safety of our people,” the DCE stated.

Parents Express Gratitude

Some parents whose children benefited from the treatment exercise expressed appreciation to the Member of Parliament and the District Health Directorate for the swift response.

“If not for this intervention, the disease would have spread further. We are grateful for the help given to our children,” one parent said.

Health authorities have urged parents and schools to reinforce hygiene practices and report suspected cases early, as efforts continue to completely contain the outbreak in the district.