GHS Assures Public of Readiness to Respond to Cholera Outbreaks
The Ghana Health Service (GHS) says it is fully prepared to respond to cholera outbreaks this rainy season, with designated treatment facilities and emergency systems in place across the country.
The Director-General, Dr Samuel Kaba Akoriyea, gave the assurance at a media briefing on the School-Based Insecticide-Treated Net (ITN) Distribution and the 2026 Seasonal Malaria Chemoprevention (SMC) Campaign.
He noted that cholera, like malaria and typhoid, has become a recurring public health challenge during the rainy season.
According to him, outbreaks have become seasonal over the years, making preparedness a critical priority for the Service and the public.
Dr Akoriyea said GHS has developed a phased strategy to manage cholera.
The plan includes maintaining uninterrupted routine healthcare services while activating emergency response systems to care for patients affected by the disease.
He disclosed that specific health facilities have been identified and designated nationwide to receive and manage cholera cases if outbreaks occur.
The move, he explained, is to avoid overwhelming a single treatment centre, as happened in previous outbreaks, and to ensure patients get timely, quality care. “Ghana’s response is now guided by experience and careful planning,” he said.
“By decentralising treatment and strengthening the readiness of health facilities, the Service aims to improve coordination, reduce pressure on hospitals, and provide faster medical attention to affected communities.”
Despite the Service’s preparedness, Dr Akoriyea stressed that GHS alone cannot eliminate cholera.
He urged Ghanaians to play their part through proper hygiene and sanitation.
He called on the public to wash hands regularly with soap under running water, keep homes and surroundings clean, dispose of waste responsibly, and keep drains and waterways free of refuse to allow rainwater to flow and reduce flooding.
“Cholera is preventable and collective action remains the most effective way to protect lives,” Dr Akoriyea said.
“By working together and adhering to recommended public health measures, communities can significantly reduce the risk of outbreaks and contribute to a healthier and safer Ghana.”
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