The Ghana Health Service (GHS) has officially launched an oral cholera vaccination campaign as part of efforts to combat the cholera outbreak that has claimed 21 lives in the country. The outbreak has particularly affected the Central Region, with Awutu Senya East identified as a hotspot.
The vaccination campaign will begin on Saturday, November 30, in Awutu Senya East, focusing on three sub-districts within the region. The rollout will use a phased approach, with vaccination teams visiting homes, workplaces, religious gatherings, and social events to ensure maximum coverage. Mobile teams will also set up at health centers and hospitals to reach as many individuals as possible.
In a press briefing on Friday, November 29, the Director-General of the GHS, Dr. Patrick Kuma-Aboagye, emphasized the importance of combining vaccination efforts with enhanced sanitation and access to clean water to prevent further spread of the disease.
“While the cholera vaccine presents an additional approach for cholera prevention and control, it does not replace priority measures such as proper sanitation and access to safe drinking water.”
He stressed the need to take up hygiene practices, including frequent handwashing with soap under running water, consuming freshly cooked food, and keeping surroundings clean.
The oral cholera vaccine will be administered to all persons aged two years and above, excluding pregnant and breastfeeding women.
The vaccine, endorsed by the Food and Drugs Authority, has been deemed safe and effective. The GHS has also committed to monitoring its impact throughout the campaign.
Dr Kuma-Aboagye called on parents and caregivers to ensure their children are vaccinated while urging journalists to act as ambassadors for immunisation by disseminating accurate information about the vaccine and its benefits.
The Ghana Health Service also announced the introduction of a second dose of the inactivated polio vaccine (IPV) into the immunisation schedule. Starting from December 1, the second dose will be administered to children aged seven months and above, providing additional protection against polio.
