The Ministry of Health has raised concerns over the increased risk of cholera following the recent flooding in Accra, urging Ghanaians to adopt strict hygiene practices to prevent the spread of the disease.
Health officials say contaminated water, poor sanitation and overflowing drains have created conditions that could trigger an outbreak, particularly in flood-affected communities.
Flood conditions raise public health concerns
The warning was issued during a high-level meeting on water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH) to assess the public health impact of the floods.
According to health authorities, stagnant water and poor waste management have significantly increased the risk of water-borne diseases, especially cholera, which spreads through contaminated food and water.
Ghana Health Service activates response plan
The Director of Public Health at the Ghana Health Service, Dr Franklyn Asiedu Bekoe, said coastal communities remain the country’s cholera hotspots because of longstanding sanitation challenges and high population density.
He announced that the Ghana Health Service will implement a three-month response plan to strengthen preparedness.
“As a service, we are reviewing our plans. To strengthen preparedness, the service will roll out a three-month response plan focused on enhanced disease surveillance, effective case management, community engagement, and intensified risk communication to educate the public on preventive measures. Our focus is more on prevention because the risk factors are there,” he said.
Dr. Asiedu Bekoe advised the public to drink safe water, wash their hands regularly with soap, keep their surroundings clean, use hygienic toilet facilities and seek immediate medical attention if they experience severe diarrhoea or vomiting.
Akandoh urges Ghanaians to eat warm food
Minister of Health Kwabena Mintah Akandoh assured the public that the Ministry is working with Metropolitan, Municipal and District Assemblies, as well as other stakeholders, to reduce the risk of an outbreak during the rainy season.
He encouraged Ghanaians to follow basic health precautions to protect themselves and their families.
“I want to reiterate the need for us to protect ourselves from the outbreaks. Let’s use clean water and eat warm foods. Use sanitizer and wash our hands well,” he urged.
The Ministry says public cooperation will be essential in preventing a cholera outbreak as the rainy season continues.
