Cholera outbreak: 16 dead, 115 infected in one month

A cholera outbreak has claimed the lives of 16 people, with 115 others confirmed to be infected across multiple regions in Ghana over the past month. According to Dr. Dennis Laryea, the Head of Disease Surveillance at the Ghana Health Service (GHS), a total of 1,350 suspected cholera cases have been reported, primarily in the Greater Accra, Eastern, Central, and Western Regions. These cases have been spread across 12 districts in these regions, resulting in a case fatality rate of 1.2%.

Dr. Laryea explained that while most cholera infections are not severe, fatalities have occurred due to delays in seeking medical care. “Deaths have occurred because many patients attempted self-medication or delayed hospital visits, often waiting three days before seeking treatment,” he noted.

The outbreak is being fueled by several factors, including inadequate access to clean water, open defecation, and poor hand hygiene. Dr. Laryea emphasized the importance of frequent handwashing with soap and water, or using hand sanitizers when clean water is unavailable, as key preventative measures.

While Ghana had not experienced a major cholera outbreak from 2017 to 2023, a few isolated cases were reported during that period. Dr. Laryea highlighted that the handwashing practices adopted during the COVID-19 pandemic were instrumental in controlling infectious diseases, such as cholera, and urged the public to continue these practices.

Cholera is a potentially deadly diarrheal disease caused by ingesting food or water contaminated with the Vibrio cholerae bacteria. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), cholera remains a significant global health threat, often exacerbated by social inequities and lack of development. Common symptoms include diarrhea, vomiting, dehydration, abdominal cramps, fever, and fatigue. If left untreated, severe cases can lead to death within hours.

Not all individuals infected with cholera show symptoms, but the bacteria can still be present in their feces for up to 10 days, posing a risk of environmental contamination and further spread of the disease. Those who develop severe dehydration from acute watery diarrhea are at greater risk of death without prompt treatment.

Cholera transmission is closely linked to poor sanitation and limited access to clean water, with high-risk areas including peri-urban slums and displaced persons camps. Early detection and treatment are crucial in preventing complications and reducing mortality.

The Ghana Health Service has advised the public to drink only treated water, consume thoroughly cooked food, avoid contact with infected individuals, maintain proper hygiene, dispose of waste appropriately, and seek medical attention immediately if experiencing symptoms like severe diarrhea and vomiting.