The Ministry of Health has issued a public health alert over the increased risk of a cholera outbreak following recent flooding in Accra, urging residents to adopt strict hygiene practices to prevent the spread of the disease.
Health authorities say the floods have created conditions that could accelerate the transmission of water-borne diseases, particularly cholera, due to contaminated water sources, poor sanitation, and the accumulation of waste in affected communities.
The warning was issued during a high-level meeting on the impact of water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH) challenges following the heavy rains and flooding that affected several parts of the capital.
According to health officials, stagnant water, overflowing drains, and inadequate waste management have significantly increased public health risks, especially in densely populated areas.
Director of Public Health at the Ghana Health Service, Dr. Franklyn Asiedu Bekoe, cautioned that Ghana remains vulnerable to cholera outbreaks, particularly in coastal communities where sanitation challenges have persisted over the years.
“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,” he said.
“Our focus is more on prevention because the risk factors are there,” he added.
Dr. Asiedu Bekoe encouraged the public to take preventive measures seriously by drinking safe water, washing hands regularly with soap, maintaining clean surroundings, using hygienic toilet facilities and seeking immediate medical attention if symptoms develop.
He explained that early symptoms of cholera often include severe diarrhoea, vomiting and dehydration, and stressed the importance of reporting suspected cases promptly to the nearest health facility.
The Ministry of Health has also assured the public that it is working closely with Metropolitan, Municipal and District Assemblies, as well as other stakeholders, to minimise the risk of an outbreak as the rainy season continues.
Minister of Health, Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, called on Ghanaians to remain vigilant and make personal hygiene a priority during this period.
“I want to reiterate the need for us to protect ourselves from outbreaks. Let’s use clean water and eat warm foods. Use sanitiser and wash our hands well,” the Minister urged.
Health experts say cholera is a highly infectious disease that spreads primarily through contaminated food and water. They warn that flooding often increases the risk of outbreaks by disrupting sanitation systems and contaminating drinking water supplies.
With the rainy season expected to continue, authorities are intensifying public education campaigns and strengthening disease surveillance systems to detect and respond quickly to any suspected cases.
The Ministry is therefore urging all residents, particularly those living in flood-affected communities, to observe proper hygiene practices and cooperate with health officials to prevent a potential outbreak.
