The Ashanti Region has, for the first time, reported five confirmed cholera cases across three districts. The Sekyere South District recorded the highest number of cases with three, while Kumasi and Bekwai each confirmed one case as of December 28, 2024.
Out of a total of 28 suspected cases, five tested positive during laboratory examinations. This development places the Ashanti Region alongside the Western, Greater Accra, and Central Regions, which have recently reported fatal cholera outbreaks.
Health authorities in the Ashanti Region had been on high alert due to the outbreaks in these other regions, noting the similarities they share with the Ashanti Region. The situation prompted the Ashanti Regional Health Directorate to summon stakeholders to a Public Health Emergency Operations Centre meeting to strategize on addressing the issue.
Key stakeholders at the meeting included the Food and Drugs Authority (FDA), environmental health officers from both regional and district levels, water and sanitation representatives, and health directors from district, municipal, and metropolitan assemblies.
The Ashanti Regional Health Directorate has activated public health emergency committees in all affected districts. Regional teams have been tasked to support district teams in conducting active surveillance and implementing recommended measures.
Initial assessments in the affected communities, including Bekwai and Sekyere South Districts, revealed that all confirmed cases occurred in confined areas where residents do not use public washrooms.
Dr. Fred Adomako-Boateng, Director of the Ashanti Regional Health Directorate, announced that efforts are underway to strengthen sensitization campaigns and train healthcare workers on case definition, case identification, and contact tracing. Surveillance and case searches in affected districts have also been intensified.
All five confirmed cases have since recovered, with the last patient discharged on December 24, 2024.
The cholera outbreak in Ghana this year began in the Western Region, where over 100 cases were reported, resulting in 15 fatalities. The situation underscores the need for continued vigilance and public health measures to prevent further outbreaks.
Source: www.kumasimail.com
