The Ministry of Health has stepped up efforts to prevent disease outbreaks in flood-affected communities across Accra after Monday’s heavy rains.
Health Minister Kwabena Mintah Akandoh is leading a team of health officials to inspect flood-prone areas, assess sanitation conditions and educate residents on disease prevention.
Health officials warn that stagnant water, blocked drains and contaminated water sources can quickly spread diseases if people fail to take precautions.
Flooding raises health concerns
Monday’s floods submerged homes and businesses in several communities. The floods also destroyed food items and polluted water sources.
The Ministry says these conditions increase the risk of cholera, diarrhoea, typhoid fever and malaria.
To reduce the risk, the minister visited Adawnaa, Neoplan Station and Achimota Agbogbloshie, where he spoke with residents and traders about staying safe after the floods.
Residents urged to stay safe
Mr Akandoh advised residents to avoid contaminated food and water.
“As the homes have been flooded, the water carried faecal matter, germs and many other harmful substances into houses. Their water may be contaminated. People should eat warm food and boil rainwater or add alum before using it. Anyone who develops diarrhoea should report to the nearest hospital immediately,” he said.
Health workers to support communities
The minister announced that the Ministry will deploy public health nurses and community health workers to affected communities.
The teams will continue public education and help residents prevent disease outbreaks.
“We are also going to deploy the public health nurses into the communities to continue the awareness and prevention education,” he said.
The Ministry has also urged the public to keep their surroundings clean, drink safe water, wash their hands regularly and seek medical care immediately if they experience symptoms such as severe diarrhoea or vomiting.
Health officials say early reporting of suspected cholera and other infectious diseases will help stop outbreaks as floodwaters recede.
