The Ashanti region has confirmed its first five cases of cholera across three districts.
The Sekyere South district has reported the highest number, with three confirmed cases, while Kumasi and Bekwai each have one case as of December 28, 2024.
Out of 28 suspected cases, five have tested positive in laboratory examinations.
The Ashanti region now joins the Western, Greater Accra, and Central regions, which have recently faced severe cholera outbreaks.
Since October of this year, the country has recorded a total of 4,155 suspected cholera cases, with the latest figures reported as of December 23, 2024.
Tragically, 35 individuals have succumbed to the illness. Health authorities have declared a state of heightened vigilance in light of these outbreaks, emphasising the similarities between the affected regions and the Ashanti region.
In response to the situation, the Ashanti Regional Health Directorate has organised a meeting with all relevant stakeholders at the Public Health Emergency Operations Centre to address the issue.
Participants in this meeting included representatives from the Food and Drugs Authority (FDA), environmental officers at both regional and district levels, as well as officials from water and sanitation departments, along with health directors from district, municipal, and metropolitan areas.
Regional teams have been assigned to support district teams in maintaining active surveillance and implementing recommended measures, while public health emergency committees at both regional and district levels in all affected areas have been activated.
To alleviate residents’ concerns, the Regional Health Directorate has undertaken disinfection of the homes of all confirmed cases, isolated those affected, and traced and confined all contacts to prevent further spread.
An initial assessment in the affected communities, including Bekwai and Sekyere South Districts, revealed that all confirmed cases were situated in confined areas and did not use public restrooms.
The Ashanti Regional Health Directorate continues to lead efforts in managing this public health crisis.
Cholera Outbreak: 35 dead, over 4,000 suspected cases reported
