The Ghana Health Service is taking drastic measures to contain the cholera outbreak

In response to the ongoing cholera outbreak, the Ministry of Health through the Ghana Health Service (GHS) has announced a series of effective measures to bring the situation under control.

The country has recorded a total of 4,155 suspected cases of cholera since October this year. This number was recorded on December 23, 2024. Unfortunately, of that number, 35 died.

Dr. Patrick Kuma Aboagye, Director General of the GHS, noted in a statement on December 24 that the measures taken include the activation of the National Public Health Emergency Operation Center at the national level and the Public Health Emergency Management Committee (PHEMC) in all affected regions and districts.

In addition, a joint multi-sectoral Public Health Emergency Rapid Response Team (PHERRT) has been set up at national, regional and district levels, comprising representatives from NCCE, GES, NADMO and Environmental Health in all affected districts.

Detailed outbreak investigations and environmental assessments are ongoing in all affected districts, along with daily active community case searches. Mobilization of essential medicines, personal protective equipment and water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH) items from national and regional levels are being deployed to support affected districts.

Strict infection prevention and control practices are enforced in all health facilities, and community oral cholera rehydration centers are established for mild cases. The focus is on public education about cholera prevention through mobile vans, radio panels, and other platforms, with an emphasis 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 conducting vaccination campaigns in hotspot districts.

Dr. Aboagye urged anyone suffering from diarrhea and vomiting to immediately report to the nearest health facility. As the Christmas season begins, the public is advised to drink drinking water, eat hot food, wash fruits and vegetables thoroughly and practice good hand hygiene.

“We would like to commend all healthcare 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 in ending this outbreak.” We assure everyone involved that we will continue to work together to stop the outbreak,” said Dr. Aboagye.