Ghana has recorded 6,145 cholera cases, with 719 confirmed and 49 deaths as of February 13, 2025, according to Health Minister Kwabena Mintah Akandoh.

Addressing Parliament on Tuesday, February 18, Akandoh stated that the outbreak, which began in October 2024 in Ada West, Greater Accra Region, has spread to multiple regions, including Central, Western, Ashanti, and Eastern.

According to the minister Central Region has been the hardest hit in recent weeks, particularly in the districts of Agona West and Effutu. These areas have reported 133 new cases in the past week alone, with 23 hospital admissions and two fatalities, he stated.

Despite the severity of the outbreak, Akandoh noted a decline in new cases, stating, "The situation is improving, with active cases now concentrated in the Central Region only.

"As of February 16, 28 active cases remain under medical care in the region, with Effutu reporting 18 cases, Cape Coast six, and Agona West four.

Government response and public health measures

Akandoh outlined the government’s response plan, stressing enhanced surveillance, strengthened laboratory capacity, environmental assessments, public awareness campaigns, and the establishment of cholera treatment centers.

The MOH, he said in collaboration with healthcare workers and international health partners, has intensified efforts to control the outbreak.

In addition, he said surveillance has been heightened to quickly identify and manage new cases, with health officials conducting active community case studies and contact tracing to prevent further spread. 

“Laboratory testing capacity has also been strengthened, ensuring swift confirmation of suspected cholera cases. Meanwhile, environmental assessments have been carried out in affected districts to identify risk factors such as poor sanitation and unsafe water sources that may be fueling the outbreak”, the minister stated.

Also in response to the crisis, Akandoh said public awareness campaigns have been launched nationwide, educating communities on cholera prevention, proper hygiene, and safe food handling. 

Additionally, he said specialised cholera treatment centers have been established in key areas, where healthcare workers have received extensive training on case management, infection prevention, and control measures.

One of the most significant interventions, he noted has been the deployment of oral cholera vaccines (OCV) in high-risk areas.

According to Akandoh, the vaccination campaign has so far covered the Central and Western Regions, reaching 596,205 people—representing 92.9% of the targeted population.

"These vaccines aim to protect vulnerable populations and reduce further outbreaks. As of February 17, vaccination campaigns in the Central and Western Regions have reached 596,205 people, covering 92.9% of the targeted population," Akandoh stated.

Challenges and ongoing efforts

Despite progress, Akandoh acknowledged ongoing challenges, including poor sanitation, limited access to clean water, and inadequate hygiene practices. "Cholera requires a multisectoral approach to be fully controlled," he said, urging local authorities to prioritize long-term improvements in sanitation and public health infrastructure.

He reiterated the government’s commitment to tackling the outbreak and preventing further fatalities. "In the long term, we must enhance sanitation systems, food and water safety, and personal hygiene practices to prevent cholera from recurring," he added.