The Ashanti region of Ghana has confirmed five cholera cases across three districts, marking the first recorded outbreak in the area.

The Sekyere South district reported the highest number, with three confirmed cases, while Kumasi and Bekwai each recorded one case as of December 28, 2024. Of 28 suspected cases tested, five returned positive results.

The Ashanti region now joins the Western, Greater Accra, and Central regions, which have recently seen fatal cholera outbreaks. Health authorities have been on high alert due to similarities between these regions and Ashanti.

In response, the Ashanti Regional Health Directorate has called a meeting with key stakeholders, including the Food and Drugs Authority, environmental officers, and local health directors, to address the situation. Regional teams have been assigned to support district efforts in surveillance and implementing preventive measures. Public health emergency committees have been activated in the affected districts.

To prevent further spread, health authorities have disinfected the homes of those affected, isolated cases, and traced contacts. Initial assessments revealed that all confirmed cases lived in confined areas and did not use public washrooms.

Dr. Fred Adomako-Boateng, head of the Ashanti Regional Health Directorate, confirmed that all five patients have recovered, with the last patient discharged on December 24, 2024. Efforts to enhance case identification, contact tracing, and public awareness are ongoing in the region.

Cholera cases were first reported in the Western Region this year, where over 100 cases have been recorded, including 15 fatalities.

Source:TheDotNews