A cholera outbreak in the Western Region has killed 14 people, while several others have been hospitalized in various healthcare facilities.
As of December 7th, 789 suspected cases had been reported, with daily new cases exceeding 60.
In response to the spike, a team from the Ghana Health Service’s Institutional Care Division was despatched to the region to monitor the situation, reassess emergency healthcare preparations, and offer additional staff to ensure timely treatment.
According to JoyNews’ Western Regional correspondent, Ina-Thalia Quansah, both public and private hospitals treat between 15 and 20 cholera victims every day. Hospital authorities have done their best, but have frequently underlined the critical need for additional resources and supplies.
Due to overpopulation, many hospitals have been compelled to transform their waiting rooms into treatment areas for cholera patients, according to Quansah.
The Western Regional Directorate is preparing a vaccination program, with an emphasis on the Sekondi-Takoradi Metropolitan Assembly and Ahanta West.
The immunization push is scheduled to begin on Friday, December 14th, and will last until the following Thursday.
Authorities have ordered food sellers, notably those selling vegetables, to stop operating. Vendors who violate this directive will incur sanctions.
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is conducting inspections to evaluate sanitation issues in the Sekondi-Takoradi metropolitan.
Environmental surveillance and investigations have found that 96% of infections are associated with food vendors, notably those selling infected vegetables.
The outbreak has affected four regions: Greater Accra, Eastern, Central, and Western.
