Navigating Sickness and Zoonotic Diseases: Managing Health and Well-being among the Nomads in Ghana

Abstract

Nomadic populations migrate uncontrollably across the West African sub-region. Their migratory tendencies have often marginalized them, denied them the opportunity to attain formal education, and also exposed them to diseases. This article applies the social constructionist theoretical perspective to nomads' ways of navigating difficulties in accessing health care services. Using interviews, questionnaires, focus group discussions, and observations for data collection, the paper found that nomads are exposed to both human and zoonotic diseases, have poor attitudes, and have limited access to modern health facilities. They prefer traditional treatment and self-medication. They pose a public health risk, and the state must take measures to employ mobile health services to curtail this.