The Central Regional Health Directorate has raised a critical alarm regarding a potential cholera outbreak in the Cape Coast Municipality, triggered by an ongoing water crisis impacting several communities.
Health officials are warning that without immediate action, hundreds of residents could be at risk of infection.
Communities like Amomoma, Bonkus, Apewosika, Ola, and Nkanfoa have expressed growing frustration over the prolonged water shortage, with many residents being forced to purchase water from tanker services at exorbitant prices.
“We haven’t had water for over three months,” lamented a resident of Nkanfoa. “We are compelled to buy water from tanker services, and it’s really expensive. Not everyone can afford it.”
In areas dominated by students, such as Amomoma, Bonkus, and Apewosika, the crisis is impacting academic life. Doris Dorgu, a university student from Bonkus, shared her struggles: “We sometimes have to walk long distances just to fetch water, and it’s affecting our studies. There are days we miss lectures because we have to prioritize getting water.”
Dr. Joojo Cobinah, Deputy Health Director of Public Health for the Central Region, warned that the water shortage could create the ideal conditions for a cholera outbreak if not swiftly addressed. “If immediate interventions are not made to resolve this water shortage, more people will fall victim to the disease,” he cautioned.
“We urge residents to observe strict hygiene practices, including drinking clean water and proper handwashing. We are also calling on duty bearers to provide alternative water supplies to avert any possible surge,” he added.
As of January 26, 2025, 20 of the 22 districts in the Central Region had recorded cholera cases, resulting in 14 deaths. Out of 1,929 suspected cases, 180 have been confirmed.
Dr. Cobinah stressed the importance of vigilance and cooperation from all stakeholders to contain the outbreak. Surveillance and monitoring efforts have been ramped up as part of an emergency response.
Unfortunately, most of the deaths could have been prevented, as many patients arrived at health facilities in critical condition or were already dead by the time they reached medical help.
The worsening situation has intensified calls for preventive measures to curb further transmission, with public health officials urging residents to maintain hygienic practices similar to those adopted during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Dr. Cobinah also emphasized the need for residents to seek prompt medical attention at healthcare facilities if they experience symptoms like acute diarrhoea and dehydration to prevent severe illness or fatalities from cholera.
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