The Ghana Health Service (GHS) has recorded 720 suspected instances of cholera, with 47 confirmed cases and seven fatalities in the Central Region since Thursday, October 31.
The occurrences have been reported in eight of the 22 districts in the region including Awutu-Senya-East and West, Gomoa East, Mfantseman, Gomoa West, Agona West, Cape Coast, and Twifo-Hemang-Lawyer-Denkyira.
While the gender of the deceased remained undisclosed, the fatalities were recorded in Komenda-Edina-Eguafo-Abrem Municipality, Assin North and South, and Gomoa West districts.
Dr. Agnes Achiama Anane, Acting Regional Director of the GHS, disclosed this during a news briefing on the outbreak of cholera in the region on Monday.
She said the deaths were preventable, as four of the patients arrived late at health facilities in critical condition, while three were already deceased upon arrival.
The current situation had prompted urgent calls for preventive measures to check further transmission, emphasising the necessity for the public to adhere to hygienic protocols that were widely practised during the COVID-19 pandemic.
These measures include frequent hand washing, use of sanitisers, and meticulous handling of food and water, deemed crucial in curtailing the spread of the disease.
Dr. Anane underscored the importance of seeking prompt medical attention at healthcare facilities when experiencing symptoms like acute diarrhoea and dehydration to reduce the likelihood of severe illness or fatality from cholera.
“Our primary concern has been the fatalities. The figures, yes, but a considerable number of them were brought in critically ill, signifying delayed care and attention, “she said.
Dr. Anane further implored residents to uphold impeccable hygiene standards and prioritise nutritious dietary practices as they remained vigilant in keeping good environmental sanitation to avert the spread of the disease.
She said the clarion call is for a unified and concerted effort from neighbouring areas to effectively work to contain the disease.
