Ghana cholera outbreak: update

There are signs of improvement in Ghana, where a cholera outbreak has affected several regions in the past few weeks. With over 6100 cases and 51 deaths as of 16 February, the outbreak has put intense pressure on the local health system, with doctors and healthcare workers in hospitals often overwhelmed by the high number of infected persons. The situation remains critical, especially in the Central regions, but there is a decline in new cases in the districts initially hard-hit by the epidemic. Enhanced surveillance, rapid diagnosis, and environmental assessments are starting to work, helping to contain the outbreak. Cholera treatment centers have also been set up, and oral vaccinations in high-risk areas are giving good results, with nearly 854,000 persons immunized against the disease. Meanwhile, several public awareness campaigns, involving even local media houses, are educating the public on preventive measures, including improved sanitation and hygiene practices. Despite the decline in cases, experts remain cautious and warn that sustained efforts are needed to prevent future outbreaks.