A cholera outbreak has been reported in the Ashanti region, with five confirmed cases recorded across three districts.
The Sekyere South district has been affected the most, with three confirmed cases, while Kumasi and Bekwai have each reported one case as of December 28, 2024.
Out of a total of 28 suspected cases, five tested positive during laboratory tests, confirming the presence of cholera in the region.
This development comes after the Western, Greater Accra, and Central regions reported fatal cholera cases, prompting health authorities to remain on high alert.
The Ashanti Regional Health Directorate has swiftly responded to the outbreak by convening a Public Health Emergency Operations Centre meeting, which brought together stakeholders including the Food and Drugs Authority (FDA), environmental officers, and health directors.
Regional teams have been deployed to support district teams in active surveillance and implementing recommended actions to contain the spread of the disease.
To mitigate the risk of further transmission, the Regional Health Directorate has taken proactive measures, including disinfecting households of confirmed cases, isolating cases, and tracing and confining contacts.
Preliminary assessments have revealed that all confirmed cases reside in confined areas and do not use public washrooms.
Under the leadership of Dr. Fred Adomako-Boateng, the directorate is intensifying sensitization and training programs for healthcare workers on case definition, case findings, and contact tracing. Surveillance and case search have been activated in affected districts to ensure prompt identification and management of new cases.
Fortunately, all five confirmed cases have recovered, with the last patient being discharged on December 24, 2024. This positive outcome is a testament to the effectiveness of the directorate’s response efforts.
The cholera outbreak in the Ashanti region serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining high standards of hygiene and sanitation. The public is urged to remain vigilant and take necessary precautions to prevent the spread of the disease.