The Central Region has witnessed a worrying surge in new HIV infections, recording 3,803 cases in 2024—a sharp 45.3% increase from the 2,168 infections reported in 2023. This alarming rise, alongside an ongoing cholera outbreak, has placed immense pressure on the region’s healthcare system, according to the Regional Health Directorate.
Dr. Agnes Achiamaa Anane, Acting Regional Director of Health Services, disclosed these figures during the 2024 Central Regional Annual Health Performance Review in Cape Coast. She expressed deep concern over the escalating health crises, citing the strain on medical resources and personnel.
Beyond the surge in HIV cases, the region is battling a severe cholera outbreak. As of March 18, a total of 3,028 suspected cases had been recorded, with 260 confirmed, including infections among four health workers. Tragically, 19 people have lost their lives to the disease.
The Central Region underwent an annual performance evaluation conducted by the Eastern Regional Health Directorate. The assessment focused on three critical areas: access to quality healthcare, reduction in preventable maternal and child deaths, and improved public health emergency responses.
Despite the health crises, the region’s overall healthcare performance saw a slight improvement, rising from a score of 3.9 in 2023 to 4.1 out of 5 in 2024. However, other health indicators presented mixed results.
- Maternal mortality worsened, increasing from 71 deaths per 100,000 live births in 2023 to 82 in 2024.
- Infant mortality saw slight improvements.
- Malaria cases and mother-to-child HIV transmission rates declined.
Dr. Anane urged residents, particularly the youth, to take precautions against HIV by abstaining from sex, using condoms, or avoiding multiple sexual partners. She also emphasized the need for improved sanitation to curb cholera infections, noting that the outbreak had highlighted major gaps in water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) interventions.
“In response, we are intensifying prevention efforts, conducting mass awareness campaigns, and strengthening surveillance systems to contain and prevent future outbreaks,” she assured.
Central Regional Minister, Mr. Ekow Panyin Okyere Eduamoah, praised health workers for their dedication and pledged government support to strengthen healthcare delivery. He emphasized the government’s commitment to boosting healthcare infrastructure and tackling infectious diseases through budgetary allocations.
However, he also criticized the poor sanitation conditions in several communities, urging residents to take responsibility for keeping their surroundings clean to prevent the spread of diseases.
As part of the event, the Regional Health Directorate honored retired health workers for their dedicated service to the region and the nation.
The Central Region’s worsening health indicators underscore the urgent need for public health interventions, increased healthcare funding, and community cooperation in tackling both HIV and cholera outbreaks.
