This blog is managed by the content creator and not GhanaWeb, its affiliates, or employees. Advertising on this blog requires a minimum of GH₵50 a week. Contact the blog owner with any queries.

Spencer Wan Blog of Wednesday, 29 January 2025

Source: Eric Afatsao

The Health Directorate fears that a water problem in Cape Coast could lead to a cholera outbreak.

Comments (0)

  • Share:
  • WhatsApp
  • Twitter

A cholera epidemic in the Cape Coast Municipality is a serious risk due to the capital's lack of clean water, the Central Regional Health Directorate has warned.For weeks, there has been a persistent water deficit that has made it difficult for many homes, schools, and medical facilities to obtain drinkable water, according to health experts.

As a result, cholera and other infectious diseases have been able to flourish due to inadequate sanitation and hygiene conditions.A resident of Nkanfoa bemoaned, "We haven't had water for more than three months." "We have no choice but to purchase water from tanker services, which is very costly. Some people cannot afford it.Amomoma, Bonkus, and Apewosika are student-heavy locations where the crisis is affecting school life.

"We sometimes have to walk long distances just to fetch water, and it's affecting our studies," said Doris Dorgu, a Bonkus university student, of her difficulties. On other days, we have to prioritize drinking water over attending lectures.If the water deficit is not immediately solved, Dr. Joojo Cobinah, Deputy Health Director of Public Health for the Central Region, cautioned that it might create the perfect environment for a cholera outbreak.

More people will contract the illness, he said, if quick action is not taken to address the water scarcity.We encourage residents to exercise good hygiene, which includes washing their hands properly and drinking clean water. Additionally, we are requesting that duty bearers supply other water sources in order to prevent any potential surge," he continued.

Hundreds of individuals could be at risk of illness if prompt action is not taken, according to health officials.As of January 26, 2025, 14 people have died from cholera, which had been documented in 20 of the Central Region's 22 districts. There are 180 confirmed cases out of 1,929 suspected cases.Doctor.

Cobinah underlined that in order to contain the outbreak, everyone must be vigilant and work together. As part of an emergency reaction, monitoring and surveillance activities have been stepped up.He disclosed that many deaths were preventable because a number of individuals were either in serious condition when they arrived at medical facilities or had already died before obtaining treatment.

With the situation worsening, calls for preventive measures have grown louder. Public health officials are urging residents to prioritize hygiene, similar to the practices adopted during the COVID-19 pandemic, to curb further transmission.Dr.

Cobinah further advised residents to seek immediate medical care if they experience symptoms such as acute diarrhoea and dehydration, stressing that early treatment can prevent severe complications and fatalities.