Cholera Outbreak in Western Region Claims 10 Lives, Nearly 800 Cases Reported
A cholera outbreak in Ghana's Western Region has resulted in at least 10 deaths, with health officials confirming close to 800 suspected cases. The outbreak, which began a few weeks ago, has rapidly spread through several communities, raising serious public health concerns. Authorities are now taking urgent steps to contain the spread and prevent further casualties.
Cholera is a bacterial infection that spreads through contaminated food and water, causing severe diarrhea and dehydration. The rapid transmission of the disease is often linked to poor sanitation and limited access to clean water, conditions that exist in parts of the affected areas.
According to the Ghana Health Service (GHS), the most affected districts include Sekondi-Takoradi, Nzema East, and Ahanta West. Reports indicate that the majority of the cases involve children and elderly residents, who are more vulnerable to the severe effects of dehydration caused by the disease.
Dr. Emmanuel Kwabena, a health director in the region, confirmed that health facilities are struggling to manage the increasing number of patients. “We are doing our best with the resources available, but the numbers are overwhelming. We urgently need support in the form of medical supplies, clean water, and public education to prevent further infections,” he said.
Local authorities are urging residents to adopt strict hygiene practices, including washing hands with soap, drinking boiled or treated water, and properly disposing of waste. Health officials are also conducting door-to-door campaigns to raise awareness about the disease and its prevention.
Residents have expressed fear and frustration over the outbreak. Many blame inadequate sanitation infrastructure and the poor state of water supplies for the crisis. “We’ve been complaining about the lack of clean water for years. Now, we are facing this deadly disease because our concerns were ignored,” said Ama Mensah, a community leader in Sekondi.
In response, the Ministry of Health is working with non-governmental organizations to provide emergency medical care and distribute water treatment kits. A team of experts has been deployed to the region to investigate the source of the outbreak and ensure that preventive measures are enforced.
Cholera outbreaks are not new in Ghana, but health experts warn that rapid urbanization and poor sanitation could lead to more frequent occurrences if lasting solutions are not implemented.
Authorities are urging anyone showing symptoms such as severe diarrhea, vomiting, or dehydration to seek immediate medical attention. Early treatment can significantly reduce the risk of death.
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