Ghana Health Service says region is now safe, calls for continued vigilance
The Ghana Health Service (GHS) has officially declared the Greater Accra Region cholera-free, following 30 consecutive days without a single reported case. The milestone was confirmed by Akumatey Tetteh, the Regional Manager of the Essential Programme on Immunisation (EPI), during a media workshop focused on improving cholera risk communication.
“I can confidently say that Greater Accra is cholera-free at the moment,” Tetteh said. “During the first and second quarters of this year, we recorded 151 cases and 10 deaths. However, as of now, there have been no new cases. Our surveillance shows zero reports of cholera, and we are safe for now.”
The achievement marks a major public health milestone, especially considering the outbreaks recorded in previous months. The GHS attributes the success to strengthened surveillance systems, improved sanitation awareness, and collaborative response measures from health authorities and stakeholders.
Eunice Joan Teah Dzagli, the Greater Accra Regional Health Promotion Officer, stressed the importance of sustaining this status, particularly with the onset of the rainy season, which often increases the risk of waterborne diseases.
“We are aiming for zero cholera cases during this rainy season,” she said. “Achieving this goal requires a collective effort from the media, religious bodies, and various agencies. We do not want to return to the challenges we faced in November, December, and January.”
Health officials urged the public to continue adhering to hygiene practices, including handwashing, safe water consumption, and proper food handling, as part of broader efforts to prevent a resurgence.
Source: GhanaWeb