The Ghana Health Service (GHS) has assured the public that no cholera outbreak has been recorded following the devastating floods that hit parts of the country, but urged Ghanaians to remain cautious and maintain proper hygiene practices.
The Service said although the floods created conditions that could increase the risk of waterborne diseases, ongoing preventive measures are helping to contain potential threats.
Speaking during a disinfection exercise at Tema Station Market and the Adabraka Polyclinic on Saturday, July 11, the Director-General of the GHS, Dr Samuel Kaba Akoriyea, said health authorities had not recorded any cholera cases so far.
“Fortunately, as of now, we don’t have any registered cholera outbreak. But prevention is key. We don’t need to wait for an outbreak before acting. Treatment is extremely costly,” he said.
The disinfection exercise forms part of post-flood interventions by the GHS following the nationwide clean-up campaign organised by the government in flood-affected communities.
Health authorities explained that the exercise is aimed at eliminating disease-causing organisms in public spaces and reducing the risk of cholera, typhoid and other sanitation-related illnesses.
Dr Akoriyea said the initiative, carried out in collaboration with the Korle Klottey Municipal Assembly and sanitation partner LCB Worldwide, is the next phase after the removal of waste and clearing of drains.
“After cleaning, the next step is disinfection and fumigation to avoid outbreaks of cholera, typhoid and other illnesses,” he added.
The floods, which affected several communities, left behind stagnant water, blocked drains and heaps of refuse, raising concerns over possible public health emergencies.
The GHS has therefore encouraged the public to continue observing good sanitation practices, including proper waste disposal, safe drinking water practices and personal hygiene, to prevent the spread of diseases.
