The Ghana Health Service (GHS) has issued a public health alert following intense flooding in parts of the Greater Accra Region, warning of an increased risk of waterborne diseases such as cholera, typhoid fever and dysentery.
The Service says the onset of the rainy season, combined with recent flood situations, has heightened the likelihood of contamination of water sources as rainwater may carry faecal matter into drinking water systems.
According to the GHS, the early rains also create favourable conditions for the spread of other diseases, including malaria, yellow fever and dengue fever, due to increased mosquito breeding in stagnant water collected in containers such as cans, tyres and other waste materials.
The Service further cautioned that vegetables grown near water bodies may also become contaminated during this period, posing additional health risks if not properly handled or washed.
The GHS has urged the public to strictly adhere to preventive measures, including maintaining clean surroundings, clearing bushes around homes, ensuring proper cooking of food, and washing fruits and vegetables thoroughly with clean water, salt or vinegar.
Residents have also been advised to regularly wash their hands with soap under running water, purchase food from hygienic sources, and seek immediate medical attention at the nearest health facility when symptoms of illness appear.
The Service also warned that flooding could displace reptiles from their natural habitats, increasing the risk of human contact. It advised residents to keep doors and windows secured where possible, elevate household items, and clear surroundings of bushes and potential hiding places.
Food vendors have also been reminded to adhere to strict hygiene practices, including sourcing food from approved suppliers, separating raw and cooked foods, and ensuring valid food handling certifications.
The Ministry of Health and the Ghana Health Service say they remain committed to safeguarding public health and have called for cooperation from all citizens to prevent potential disease outbreaks during the rainy season.
