Ghana’s Central Region is grappling with a mounting cholera outbreak that has now infected over 3,000 people and claimed 19 lives, including infections among frontline health workers.
According to the Regional Health Directorate, four healthcare professionals contracted the disease in the latter part of 2024 while responding to the escalating situation.
The update was shared by the Regional Director of Health Services, Dr. Agnes Achiamaa Anane, during the Annual Health Sector Performance Review held in Cape Coast on Wednesday, March 19.
“As at Tuesday, we have recorded 3,028 suspected cholera cases, with 260 confirmed,” Dr. Anane revealed. “Sadly, 19 people have died, and four health workers were infected during last year’s outbreak.”
The rising numbers have put significant pressure on the region’s already stretched healthcare system. Despite the challenge, Dr. Anane assured stakeholders that the directorate is taking proactive steps to enhance disease surveillance and outbreak preparedness.
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She called for urgent and sustained investment in health infrastructure to contain future outbreaks and protect both the public and frontline workers:
“We must continue to strengthen our surveillance and invest in infrastructure if we are to effectively respond to public health threats like cholera.”
The recent spike in cases highlights lingering gaps in sanitation, access to clean water, and public health education across vulnerable communities. Officials say efforts are ongoing to intensify community sensitization and improve early detection to curb further spread.