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Cholera Outbreak Claims 40 Lives in Ghana, Infects Hundreds Across Five Regions
A cholera outbreak that struck Ghana in October 2024 has claimed 40 lives, with 398 additional cases reported across five regions, according to data from the Ghana Health Service (GHS).
Dr. Dennis Laryea, Head of Disease Surveillance at the GHS, disclosed that 4,850 suspected cases had been recorded in the Greater Accra, Eastern, Central, Ashanti, and Western Regions. Among these, 41 individuals are currently hospitalised, while 96 new cases and 29 confirmed infections were recorded between December 26 and 31, 2024.
The outbreak has now spread to 48 districts, including La Dadekotopon in the Greater Accra Region, with a case fatality rate of 1.2%.
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Dr. Laryea attributed the spread of cholera to poor access to clean water, open defecation, and inadequate hand hygiene practices. He noted that many deaths occurred due to delays in seeking medical attention.
“Most fatalities happen because patients attempt self-medication or report to health facilities three days after the onset of symptoms,” Dr. Laryea explained.
As part of efforts to control the outbreak, a second phase of an oral cholera vaccination campaign has been successfully conducted in 18 subdistricts within four hotspot districts in the Western Region: Sekondi-Takoradi, Effia Kwesimintsim, Shama, and Ahanta West. Over 596,205 individuals were vaccinated.
Cholera, an acute diarrhoeal disease caused by ingesting contaminated food or water, can lead to severe dehydration and death within hours if untreated. Common symptoms include frequent diarrhoea, vomiting, dehydration, and abdominal cramps.
The GHS has urged the public to prioritise hygiene practices, including:
- Frequent hand washing with soap under running water.
- Drinking safe, treated water.
- Eating well-cooked food.
- Proper disposal of faeces.
Additionally, individuals experiencing diarrhoea or vomiting are advised to seek immediate medical attention.
The outbreak marks the first significant cholera crisis in Ghana since 2017. Health officials credit increased handwashing during the COVID-19 pandemic for the absence of outbreaks in recent years.
The Ghana Health Service continues to emphasise the importance of clean water, sanitation, and early detection to mitigate the impact of the outbreak.
Source: GNA
