In response to the ongoing cholera outbreak, the Ministry of Health, through the Ghana Health Service (GHS), has announced a series of robust measures to bring the situation under control.
This follows the country recording a total of 4,155 suspected cases of cholera since October this year. This number was recorded as of December 23, 2024. Unfortunately, out of the number, 35 have died.
Dr. Patrick Kuma Aboagye, Director General of the GHS in a statement dated December 24 noted that measures taken include the activation of the National Public Health Emergency Operation Centre at the national level and the Public Health Emergency Management Committee (PHEMC) in all affected regions and districts.
Additionally, a joint multisectoral Public Health Emergency Rapid Response Team (PHERRT) has been deployed from national, regional, and district levels, including representatives from NCCE, GES, NADMO, and Environmental Health in all affected districts.
An ongoing detailed outbreak investigation and environmental assessment are being conducted in all affected districts, along with daily active community case searches. The mobilisation of essential drugs, personal protective equipment, and Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) items from national and regional levels are being dispatched to support affected districts.
Strict infection prevention and control practices are being enforced in all health facilities, with community cholera oral rehydration centres set up for mild cases. Public education on cholera prevention is being emphasised through mobile vans, radio discussion sessions, and other platforms, focusing on safe drinking water, sanitation, and hygiene practices.
The GHS is also conducting water sampling for testing and culture from water sources in affected districts and running vaccination campaigns in hotspot districts.
Dr Aboagye urged anyone experiencing diarrhoea and vomiting to report to the nearest health facility promptly. As we enter the Christmas season, the public is advised to drink potable water, eat hot food, wash fruits and vegetables thoroughly, and practice good hand hygiene.
“We wish to commend all health workers, district and regional coordinating councils, the Ministry of Water and Sanitation, traditional rulers, other community and religious leaders, the media, and other stakeholders for their dedication and commitment to ending this outbreak. We assure all stakeholders that we will continue to work together to stop the outbreak,” Dr. Aboagye stated.
