A confirmed cholera case was reported in the Ada West District of Greater Accra on October 4, 2024, sparking a swift response from the Ghana Health Service (GHS).
The patient presented symptoms of vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain after attending a funeral in Ada East.
Subsequently, Ada East District also reported confirmed cholera cases, bringing the total to nine cases in both districts as of October 11.
Previous Cholera Outbreaks in Ghana
Ghana has experienced recurring cholera outbreaks, with the most severe one occurring in 2012, affecting 53 districts in nine regions, resulting in 9,548 cases and 100 deaths.
The 2012 outbreak highlighted the need for effective response strategies, prompting the GHS to assess and improve its preparedness.
The GHS has activated Public Health Emergency Management Committees (PHEMCs) at national, regional, and district levels.
A joint multi-sectoral Public Health Emergency Rapid Response Team (PHERRT) is conducting an ongoing outbreak investigation and environmental assessments.
GHS Assurance
The Ministry of Health and the GHS have assured the public of their continuous efforts to promptly detect and respond to public health emergencies.
The Director-General Dr. Patrick Kuma-Aboagye emphasized the importance of collaboration with relevant sectors and partners in combating the outbreak.
BY Daniel Bampoe