A mass cholera vaccination campaign has been started by the Ghana Health Service (GHS) in the Western Region, with a focus on four Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Assemblies (MMDAs) that have been severely affected by recent outbreaks.
Starting on December 15, 2024, and running through January 10, 2024, the exercise aims to vaccinate more than 600,000 people in the Shama Municipality, Sekondi-Takoradi Metropolis, Ahanta West, and Effia-Kwesimintsim who are two years of age or older. However, pregnant and nursing women are not included in this campaign.
READ THIS TOO: Do You Know Eating Garlic On An Empty Stomach Has This Top 5 Health Benefits
This initiative comes in response to a sharp rise in cholera cases and deaths in the Western and Central Regions. So far, eight MMDAs in the Western Region have recorded 908 confirmed cases and 10 fatalities.
To ensure thorough coverage, vaccination teams are employing a house-to-house approach and establishing stations in churches, mosques, markets, schools, homes, and other key locations. These areas have been identified as high-risk zones for cholera outbreaks.
The campaign builds on Ghana’s first sub-national cholera vaccination effort, which took place from November 30 to December 3, 2024, in Awutu Senya East sub-districts. That initiative aimed to vaccinate 150,000 people and surpassed its target, representing a significant advancement in the country’s cholera control measures.
READ THIS TOO: On January 4, The High Court Will Make A Decision About…
The GHS highlights that the Oral Cholera Vaccine is an essential tool for managing outbreaks but should be used alongside other preventive strategies. Citizens are encouraged to practice good hygiene, such as washing hands regularly with soap and water, drinking safe water, and ensuring food is thoroughly cooked.