A Concerning Rise in HIV Infections and Cholera Outbreak Challenges Central Region’s Health Progress
The Central Region of Ghana experienced a significant setback in its fight against HIV/AIDS in 2024, with a staggering 45.3% increase in new infections, rising from 2,168 in 2023 to 3,803 in 2024. This alarming surge places immense pressure on the region’s health system and raises serious concerns about the effectiveness of prevention efforts. The disclosure, made by Dr Mrs Agnes Achiamaa Anane, the Acting Regional Director of Health Service, during the annual performance review meeting, underscores the need for intensified interventions to address this growing public health crisis. Concurrent with the HIV challenge, the region also grappled with a cholera outbreak, further straining resources and highlighting vulnerabilities in water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) infrastructure.
The Central Region’s annual performance review, conducted by a team from the Eastern Regional Health Directorate, offered a mixed picture of the region’s health landscape. While the overall performance score improved slightly from 3.9 in 2023 to 4.1 in 2024 (out of a possible 5), the stark rise in HIV infections and the ongoing cholera outbreak overshadowed this incremental progress. The assessment focused on three key areas: universal access to quality healthcare, reduction of preventable maternal, adolescent, and child deaths, and access to responsive public health emergency services. Despite the positive advancements in some areas, such as a decrease in stillbirth rates and improved Measles-Rubella coverage, the pressing issues of HIV and cholera require urgent and comprehensive action.
The cholera outbreak, with 3,028 suspected cases and 19 confirmed deaths as of March 18, 2024, exposed critical weaknesses in the region’s WASH infrastructure. The fact that four health workers were among the confirmed cases highlights the occupational risks associated with such outbreaks and the need for adequate protective measures for frontline healthcare personnel. Dr. Anane emphasized that the cholera outbreak necessitates a multi-pronged approach encompassing intensified prevention efforts, public awareness campaigns, and strengthened surveillance and response mechanisms. The outbreak underscores the interconnectedness of public health challenges and the importance of addressing underlying systemic issues to prevent future crises.
While the region saw improvements in several key health indicators, including a reduction in mother-to-child HIV transmission and a decrease in malaria incidence, the increase in overall mortality, particularly maternal mortality, which rose from 71 per 100,000 live births in 2023 to 82 per 100,000 in 2024, presents a significant concern. This increase, coupled with the rise in HIV infections and the cholera outbreak, points to the complex and multifaceted nature of the health challenges facing the region. Addressing these challenges requires a comprehensive strategy that tackles both immediate crises and long-term systemic issues impacting health outcomes.
Dr. Anane called upon the public to take personal responsibility in preventing HIV transmission by promoting abstinence, condom use, and avoiding multiple sexual partners. She also stressed the importance of proper sanitation practices and the elimination of open defecation to combat cholera. These community-based interventions are crucial for complementing government efforts and empowering individuals to protect their own health. The engagement of the community is paramount for fostering sustainable change and ensuring the effectiveness of public health initiatives.
The Regional Director acknowledged the significant human resource gaps, particularly the shortage of technical personnel and essential equipment in numerous district health facilities. This shortage underscores the need for increased investment in healthcare infrastructure and human resources to ensure that all citizens have access to quality care. Addressing these resource limitations is critical for improving healthcare delivery and tackling the various health challenges facing the region. Mr. Ekow Panyin Okyere Eduamoah, the Central Regional Minister, commended the dedication of healthcare workers and pledged government support to strengthen the health system. He also highlighted the government’s plans to increase budgetary allocation for healthcare and improve national health service delivery. The Minister criticized the poor sanitation conditions in some communities that contribute to infectious diseases and overburden the health system, emphasizing the shared responsibility of maintaining a healthy environment. The holistic assessment, implemented seven years prior, provides a framework for evaluating health performance across all regions, promoting transparency and accountability in the pursuit of improved health outcomes. The Central Regional Health Directorate also recognized the contributions of retired healthcare workers, honoring their dedicated service to the region and the country. This recognition underscores the importance of valuing healthcare professionals and acknowledging their vital role in promoting public health.
