The Ghana Health Service (GHS) in Sekondi-Takoradi, Western Region, has reported a worrying rise in cholera-related deaths, with the total number of fatalities now reaching five.
The three recent deaths in the past week bring the total number of cases to five in just one week.
Dr. Pius Mensah, the Sekondi-Takoradi Metropolitan Director of Health, briefed the media about the current state of the cholera outbreak in the metropolis.
He revealed that the total number of suspected cholera cases had increased from 79 to 161, with 105 males and 56 females affected. Confirmed cases also saw a rise, going from 23 to 28 since the last update on November 20, 2024.
New Takoradi and Takoradi are currently the hardest-hit communities, reporting 31 and 25 cases, respectively. Fijai has the fewest cases with just four.
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Other affected areas include Kansaworado, Kojokrom, Ahinkofikrom, Kweikuma, Sekondi, Diabene, and Essikado.
Dr. Mensah emphasized that health officials had been working tirelessly to contain the spread of the disease since the first case was recorded on November 4.
However, he stressed the importance of public awareness and community involvement in breaking the chain of transmission.
“It’s important that we let the public know the state we find ourselves in so that we can all help do our best to break the chain of transmission,” he said.
Residents were urged to stay calm as health officials continue their containment efforts. Dr. Mensah also encouraged the public to strictly follow the Ghana Health Service’s cholera prevention protocols and seek medical attention immediately if they experience symptoms of cholera.
Mr. Daniel Lamptey, the Sekondi-Takoradi Metropolitan Environmental Health Officer, shared that efforts to prevent further spread include public education on hygiene practices, as well as screenings for food vendors in various communities to ensure they adhere to proper sanitation standards.
Mr. Innocent Haligah, the Sekondi-Takoradi Metropolitan Coordinating Director, called on the media to help raise awareness about cholera prevention to curb the outbreak and protect the residents.