The Minister of Health, Hon. Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, has reassured Parliament and the nation that the government is intensifying efforts to combat ongoing outbreaks of cholera and meningitis in the country.
During a parliamentary address on Tuesday, February 18, 2025, Hon. Akandoh provided a detailed update on the outbreaks, highlighting measures to curb infections and prevent further loss of lives.
The Minister emphasized the pivotal role of health workers in managing the crisis stating, “Our frontline health workers have demonstrated extraordinary commitment and resilience in tackling these outbreaks. Their efforts are the backbone of our response, and we are immensely grateful,” he stated.
Cholera outbreak
The cholera outbreak, which began in Ada West in October 2024, has now spread to five regions: Greater Accra, Central, Western, Ashanti, and Eastern. As of February 13, 2025, Ghana has recorded 6,145 suspected cases, with 719 confirmed cases and 49 deaths.
The Minister, however, noted signs of improvement, with active cases now concentrated in the Central Region, particularly in Agona West and Effutu districts.
These areas reported 133 new cases and two deaths in the past week, but new infections have significantly declined, with only 28 active cases currently under treatment.
To combat cholera, the Ministry of Health has implemented several measures including Enhanced Surveillance: Intensified community case searches and contact tracing; Laboratory Strengthening: Improved diagnostic capabilities for faster detection; Environmental Assessments: Identifying and mitigating sanitation risks; Public Awareness Campaigns: Educating communities on hygiene and safe food practices; Cholera Treatment Centres: Specialized units established to manage cases; and Oral Cholera Vaccination (OCV): Over 850,000 people vaccinated in high-risk districts.
Despite these efforts, Hon. Akandoh acknowledged persistent challenges, including poor sanitation and limited access to clean water. He called on local authorities to enforce sanitation laws rigorously. “Cholera thrives in environments with open defecation, unsafe water, and poor hygiene. A multisectoral approach is essential to eradicate this disease,” he stressed.
Meningitis outbreak
Meningitis, a severe infection affecting the brain and spinal cord membranes, has hit the northern regions hard, particularly the Upper West Region.
As of February 16, 129 cases and 16 deaths have been reported, with Wa Municipal, Nadowli, Wa West, Jirapa, and Nandom being the most affected districts. However, the Minister reported a decline in new cases, attributing this to the government’s aggressive response strategy.
Key measures to control meningitis include the Deployment of Experts: National teams sent to support local health workers; Free Treatment: All meningitis patients receiving free medical care; Emergency Operations Centre: Activated to coordinate response efforts; Public Awareness Campaigns: Educating communities on symptoms and early treatment; and Supply of Essential Antibiotics: Ensuring adequate medication to prevent shortages.
The Health Minister urged the public to seek immediate medical attention if they experience symptoms like fever, severe headache, neck stiffness, or confusion stating, “Early treatment is critical. Do not delay visiting a health facility.”
Human Metapneumovirus detected
In addition to cholera and meningitis, Ghana has also recorded its first case of human metapneumovirus (HMPV), a respiratory virus causing flu-like symptoms. Detected through routine surveillance, the case has raised concerns but remains isolated.
The Minister, however, reassured the public indicating the country’s surveillance system is robust, and the risk of HMPV spreading is low.
Hon. Akandoh called on Parliamentarians, local authorities, and the media to support the government’s efforts by educating the public on disease prevention.
“Members of Parliament must play a key role in sensitizing their constituents. The media should also amplify public health education to curb further infections,” he urged.
He also appealed to municipal and district assemblies to enforce sanitation laws strictly and ensure access to clean water, proper waste disposal, and food safety.
By Osumanu Al-Hassan/thenewsbulletin24.com