The Central Region of Ghana is grappling with a significant cholera outbreak, reporting a total of 3,028 suspected cases, with 290 confirmed infections and 19 fatalities as of March 18, 2024. Dr. Mrs. Agnes Achiamaa Anane, the Acting Regional Director of Health Service, revealed this alarming data during the 2024 Central Regional annual performance review meeting held in Cape Coast. Disturbingly, four health workers are among those with confirmed infections, highlighting the occupational risks associated with the outbreak. While cholera is the primary concern, the region also experienced a 14% increase in overall mortality, including a rise in maternal mortality from 71 to 82 per 100,000 live births. Dr. Anane attributed some of the cholera deaths to underlying health conditions, or comorbidities, that exacerbated the impact of the infection. Despite these challenges, the region demonstrated progress in other health indicators, including stillbirth rates, measles-rubella coverage, malaria incidence, and mother-to-child HIV transmission.
The ongoing cholera outbreak has exposed significant deficiencies in the region’s water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) infrastructure and practices. The Regional Health Service is responding by intensifying cholera prevention efforts through public awareness campaigns, enhanced surveillance, and strengthened early response mechanisms. These initiatives aim to swiftly contain the current outbreak and prevent future occurrences. Dr. Anane emphasized the crucial role of individual responsibility in combating the spread of cholera, urging citizens to prioritize proper sanitation practices and eliminate open defecation. This proactive approach, combining community education and improved public health interventions, is crucial for mitigating the risks associated with cholera and ensuring a healthier environment.
The 2024 annual performance review, facilitated by health officials from the Eastern Regional Health Directorate, provided a comprehensive assessment of the Central Region’s health system. The region received a high score overall, reflecting its commitment to improving health outcomes despite the ongoing challenges. This external evaluation offered valuable insights into the strengths and weaknesses of the region’s healthcare system, informing future strategies and resource allocation. The collaborative approach, involving peer review from another region, fosters knowledge sharing and best practices, ultimately enhancing the quality of healthcare delivery across the country.
Addressing the cholera outbreak and its underlying causes requires a multi-pronged approach involving individual responsibility, community engagement, and government intervention. Central Regional Minister, Mr. Ekow Panyin Okyere Eduamoah, condemned the prevalent poor sanitation conditions in various streets and communities, recognizing its direct link to the spread of infectious diseases like cholera. He highlighted the urgent need for citizens to take ownership of their environments and maintain cleanliness as a critical step in combating the outbreak and protecting public health. This community-based approach emphasizes the collective responsibility of residents in creating healthier surroundings and reducing the burden on the healthcare system.
Mr. Eduamoah commended the Regional Health Directorate and health workers for their unwavering dedication and tireless efforts in providing essential healthcare services, particularly amidst the cholera outbreak. He pledged government support in every possible way to empower them to effectively deliver quality healthcare to the population. This commitment underscores the importance of investing in human resources and providing healthcare professionals with the necessary tools and resources to perform their duties efficiently.
The government’s broader commitment to bolstering the national health system was reiterated, aligning with budgetary allocations aimed at enhancing healthcare delivery across Ghana. This includes investments in infrastructure development, human resource capacity building, and the implementation of innovative healthcare strategies. By prioritizing public health and allocating sufficient resources, the government aims to create a more robust and resilient healthcare system capable of effectively addressing health emergencies and improving the overall well-being of citizens. This holistic approach recognizes the interconnectedness of public health, individual responsibility, and effective governance in creating a healthier nation.
