Accra, March 26, GNA - President John Evans Atta Mills has ordered the Minister of Finance and Economic Planning to release five million Ghana Cedis towards the effective control of the cholera outbreak in the country.

This forms part of government's efforts to step up the management of the outbreak and would involve the supply of more essential medical materials, drugs and logistics.

A statement signed by Deputy Minister of Information, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa in Accra on Friday explained that government was also intensifying its public awareness campaign on and about cholera in order to reduce the rate of infections.

The statement reminded the public to take maximum precaution, and always wash their hands with soap after attending nature's call, always wash hands with soap before cooking, cook food thoroughly and eat it while it is hot, and keep water containers clean and do not put hands in drinking water.

In addition, fish and shellfish are a major cause of cholera, only eat them if they are well cooked, do not mix cooked foods with raw foods like salads, discourage the habit of several people eating together from a communal food container, and do not drink untreated water, when in doubt boil water before drinking. Meanwhile, President Mills has sent his sympathies to the families and loved ones of those who lost their lives due to the outbreak.

He has also given an assurance that government would ensure that steps are taken to prevent a reoccurrence. President Mills has also acknowledged the tireless efforts of health workers, and encouraged them to work harder to save lives.