Cholera Outbreak in Central Region: Two Dead, 69 Cases Confirmed
A cholera outbreak in the Central Region has claimed two lives in the Effutu district, with health authorities confirming a total of 69 cases as of February 8.
According to the latest situational report from the Ghana Health Service, 14 new cases were recorded on Saturday, February 8, across the Effutu and Agona districts.
Of the 69 confirmed cases, 64 patients remain hospitalized, with six classified as severe, 27 as moderate, and 36 as mild. The outbreak has spread across six districts, with Effutu reporting the highest number of infections—38 cases in total.
Healthcare workers are working tirelessly to contain the spread as the number of infections continues to rise, leaving residents anxious about the situation.
Meanwhile, 3news has learned that the Ghana Health Service plans to launch another vaccination campaign in the Greater Accra Region this week to curb the outbreak.
Preventing Cholera: Key Measures
Cholera is a highly contagious disease that can be prevented through good hygiene, safe drinking water, and proper sanitation. Below are some essential preventive measures:
1. Maintain Good Hygiene
- Wash hands frequently with soap and clean water, especially after using the toilet, before eating, and when handling food.
- Use hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol if soap and water are unavailable.
- Store food and water in clean, covered containers to avoid contamination.
2. Ensure Safe Drinking Water
- Consume water from reliable sources, such as municipal supplies or tested wells.
- Avoid drinking water from potentially contaminated rivers, lakes, or untested wells.
- Use water purification tablets or portable filters when unsure about water safety.
3. Practice Proper Sanitation
- Always use a toilet or latrine to prevent contamination.
- Dispose of waste properly to protect water sources from pollution.
- Keep living spaces clean and free from waste to reduce disease transmission.
4. Additional Precautions
- Get vaccinated if traveling to a cholera-prone area.
- Avoid undercooked or raw food, particularly seafood, to minimize risk.
- Maintain distance from infected individuals to prevent direct transmission.
Health officials continue to urge the public to adhere to these preventive measures as efforts intensify to contain the outbreak and protect communities from further infections.
