The Ghana Health Service (GHS) has recorded 720 suspected cases of cholera outbreak with 47 conrmed instances and seven fatalities in the Central Region since Thursday, October 31.
The incidents were reported in eight of the 22 Districts in the region including Awutu Senya East and West, Gomoa East, Mfantseman, Gomoa West, Agona West, Cape Coast and Twifo-Hemang-Lawyer Denkyira.
While the gender of the deceased remained undisclosed, the deaths were recorded in Assin North and South and Gomoa West districts.
At a presser, Dr Agnes Achiama Anane, Acting Regional Director of the GHS, described the deaths as preventable, noting that four patients arrived at health facilities in critical condition, while three were already deceased upon arrival.
The current situation has necessitated urgent appeals for preventive measures to hinder further transmission, emphasising the importance of the public to adhere to hygiene protocols widely practiced during the COVID-19 pandemic.
These measures, including regular hand washing, sanitization, and careful handling of food and water, considered essential in curtailing the spread
of the disease.
Dr Anane stressed the importance of seeking prompt medical attention at healthcare facilities as crucial in reducing the likelihood of severe illness
or fatality from cholera.
She urged individuals experiencing symptoms such as acute diarrhoea and dehydration to promptly seek medical assistance.
“Our primary concern has been the fatalities. The figures, yes, but some of them were brought in deceased, indicating delayed care-seeking,” she remarked.
Dr Anane advocated for strict adherence to hygiene standards and emphasised the need to prioritise nutritious dietary practices.
She implored the public to remain vigilant, highlighting the fact that personal responsibility, such as proper waste disposal and adherence to rigorous food safety measures, could signicantly mitigate the outbreak.
Therefore, she issued a rallying call for a united, concerted effort from all stakeholders to effectively manage and contain the disease.
