The Western Region has reported 15 fatalities from a cholera outbreak, with the Sekondi-Takoradi Metropolis and Effia-Kwesimintsim Municipality identified as the hardest-hit areas.
Dr. Gifty Amugi, Deputy Regional Director in charge of Public Health, disclosed during an interview on Adom FM’s Dwaso Nsem that over 1,000 individuals have sought medical attention for symptoms such as diarrhoea and vomiting. Of these cases, 90 have been confirmed as cholera.
“The outbreak began on November 4, but cases surged significantly in December. Currently, 15 deaths have been reported,” Dr. Amugi explained.
She expressed concern over the public’s neglect of safety precautions and stressed the importance of personal hygiene to prevent further spread.
“We urge everyone to practice basic hygiene. Wash your hands regularly, eat warm food, and visit a health facility immediately if symptoms appear,” she advised.
Dr. Amugi emphasized that cholera treatment is free and that health facilities are equipped with the necessary logistics to handle cases. She also highlighted the ongoing vaccination exercise, which began on Sunday and will run through Thursday, urging residents to participate.
The Western Regional Coordinating Council (WRCC) has imposed a ban on the sale of vegetables by food vendors to curb the outbreak, while the Health Directorate intensifies its awareness campaigns and preventive measures.
Residents are advised to report suspected cases promptly and adhere strictly to the health directives to prevent more fatalities.