A cholera outbreak in Ghana’s Central Region has claimed 14 lives since the first case was reported in late October 2024. Health officials have confirmed 180 cases out of 1,929 suspected cases, with 28 patients still receiving treatment.
According to Enoch Koomson, a Disease Surveillance Officer at the Regional Health Directorate, 20 out of the 22 districts in the region have recorded cases. Awutu Senya Municipality leads with 565 suspected cases, followed by Agona West (283) and Effutu (259). Only Upper Denkyira East and Assin South districts remain unaffected.
Health authorities have intensified hygiene awareness campaigns, urging the public to eat food at the right temperatures, wash hands frequently, and avoid consuming food from unsanitary sources. Schools and universities, including the University of Cape Coast, are being treated as potential hotspots, with measures in place to prevent outbreaks on campuses.
The Food and Drugs Authority has assured the public that sachet water in the region meets safety standards. However, officials warn that the upcoming rainy season could worsen the outbreak if hygiene practices are not improved.
