In response to the alarming rise in cholera cases across multiple regions, the Ministry of Health and the Ghana Health Service (GHS) have launched a vaccination campaign in Accra.
The initiative, which begins today [Friday, February 14], aims to immunize over 300,000 residents in the capital to help contain the spread of the deadly disease.
This intervention comes at a critical time, as Ghana grapples with a worsening cholera outbreak, with over 4,000 reported cases across five regions—Greater Accra, Eastern, Central, Ashanti, and Western.
Tragically, the outbreak has already claimed more than 40 lives, raising serious concerns among health officials and the general public.
Cholera, a highly contagious bacterial infection, spreads primarily through contaminated food and water, causing severe diarrhea, dehydration, and, in severe cases, death.
The outbreak is attributed to poor sanitation, inadequate access to clean water, and unhygienic food handling practices.
Health officials warn that the situation could worsen if urgent steps are not taken to prevent further transmission.
As part of the national response plan, the Ministry of Health and the Ghana Health Service are rolling out oral cholera vaccines (OCV) in targeted communities.
The vaccine provides short-term protection against the disease and is especially crucial in areas with limited access to potable water and proper sanitation facilities.
