The Central Regional Minister, Hon. Ekow Okyer Aduamoah Panyin, has toured the Effutu constituency to evaluate the ongoing cholera outbreak, which has resulted in 420 suspected cases, 30 confirmed cases, and three fatalities.
His visit aimed to assess the response measures and reassure residents of the government’s commitment to tackling the crisis.
During his tour, the Minister commended the efforts of the Effutu Municipal Health Director and the Municipal Coordinating Director for their swift organization of a cleanup exercise. He emphasized the importance of routine sanitation practices as a preventive measure, rather than reacting only when outbreaks occur.
Hon. Aduamoah Panyin also announced plans to discuss the reintroduction of communal labor with the President, aiming to enhance the cleanliness in communities nationwide. “Sanitation is a shared responsibility, and we must all play our part in ensuring a clean and healthy environment,” he stated.
As part of the government’s efforts to curb the outbreak, the Minister highlighted the enforcement of sanitation by-laws by district assemblies. These regulations will target indiscriminate waste disposal and open defecation, key factors contributing to poor sanitation.
Residents have been urged to use designated waste bins and maintain proper hygiene practices. To reinforce these measures, sanitary inspectors will be deployed to monitor the coastal areas round the clock, addressing the issue of open defecation.
“Poor sanitation will no longer be tolerated. We will ensure that residents comply with the by-laws to maintain a cleaner environment,” the Minister added.
Dr. Douglas Amponsah, Acting Medical Director of Winneba Municipal Hospital, provided an update on the hospital’s response to the outbreak. He noted that initial challenges in getting patients to seek timely medical attention have been overcome through aggressive public sensitization efforts.
However, the surge in hospital visits has placed a strain on resources, with an urgent need for additional medical supplies and personnel. Many cholera patients are also presenting with other illnesses such as malaria, typhoid fever, diabetes, and hypertension, further complicating treatment efforts.
Dr. Amponsah called on the government and stakeholders to provide the necessary logistics and support to manage the outbreak effectively.
Health authorities continue to urge residents to prioritize personal and environmental hygiene to prevent further spread of the disease. The government’s proactive stance, along with strengthened community participation, is seen as a crucial step in addressing the current outbreak and preventing future occurrences.
As efforts intensify to contain the crisis, the call for a cleaner and healthier Effutu remains at the forefront of government policy, reinforcing the need for sustained sanitation initiatives and community-driven interventions.
