The Tarkwa Nsuaem Municipal Health Directorate in the Western Region has launched an intensive awareness campaign to prevent the recurrence of cholera outbreaks in the municipality as the rainy season begins.
The initiative was announced by Mrs. Wilhemina Tiwaah Duah Morttey, the Municipal Health Director for Tarkwa Nsuaem, during a recent meeting with the District Risk Communication Team. The discussion focused on reviewing the current cholera situation and assessing the environmental conditions in the area as the rains set in, which often increases the risk of waterborne diseases.
Mrs. Morttey recalled the challenges the municipality faced during the fourth quarter of the previous year when the Western Region experienced a cholera outbreak. The Tarkwa Nsuaem Municipality recorded 167 cases and three deaths at that time. This prompted the need for a proactive approach to prevent a repeat of such incidents.
“As we approach the rainy season, we are ramping up our advocacy and sensitization efforts to protect the health of our residents,” Mrs. Morttey stated. She emphasized the need for residents to stop the harmful practice of dumping waste and sewage into open drains and gutters, as this behavior significantly contributes to the spread of cholera. Flies, she explained, can transfer the cholera bacteria from contaminated areas to food, increasing the risk of infection.
In addition to waste management, the health director highlighted essential preventive measures, including ensuring that food sold in public places is properly covered and served hot to prevent contamination. She also urged the public to prioritize regular hand washing with soap and clean running water to stay safe from cholera.
“Keeping our communities clean is everyone’s responsibility. If you see someone engaging in practices that harm the environment, please report them to the authorities or kindly advise them to stop,” she urged.
Mrs. Josephine Owusu Yeboah, the Municipal Disease Control Officer, elaborated on the steps taken by the directorate to eliminate cholera within the municipality. “Thanks to our partnership with Environmental Health officials, we have managed to keep cholera at bay. Regular waste clearing, spraying to prevent disease spread, and educating food vendors on hygiene practices have been key,” she noted.
The health directorate has also been working with stakeholders such as the National Commission for Civic Education, Information Services Department, the National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO), the Red Cross, and the media to communicate vital health information and preventive measures to communities.
Mrs. Yeboah acknowledged the ongoing risk of cholera, as cases in nearby districts could still pose a threat to Tarkwa Nsuaem. “We are doing well, but we must remain vigilant to ensure the disease does not return,” she warned.
Mr. Benjamin Osei Nti, the Assistant Municipal Environmental Health Officer, also emphasized the importance of proper waste disposal. “It’s critical not to throw waste into gutters. The rains could wash it to other areas and cause problems for others. Waste should be stored in homes and only disposed of at designated collection points,” he advised.
The Tarkwa Nsuaem Municipal Health Directorate’s efforts represent a strong, coordinated approach to cholera prevention as the community braces for the challenges the rainy season may bring. Through continued education, collaboration, and public participation, the municipality aims to protect its residents from cholera and other preventable diseases.
